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My goldfish's eye is swollen. Is it popeye or an injury? What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish

One of my goldfish’s eye seems to be swollen while the other one looks fine. I’m not sure if it popeye or if it was just n injury. What should I do to help bring done the swelling?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on July 2nd, 2018

It could be "pop eye". This can be caused by infection or trauma (aggression or from tank furniture). Treatment will include medication and maintaining pristine water quality. Goldfish produce a larger than average bio load (wastes) which can quickly overwhelm a tank and filter. Ideally, one goldfish should have 20 gallons of water and 10 additional gallons should be added per extra fish. The filter should be rated for at least twice the volume of the tank. Check water chemistry using a home test kit or by submitting a water sample for testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or for a small fee. Aim for 0 ppm ammonia and nitrites with a nitrate level of 20 ppm or less. Partial water changes can be done to stabilize chemistry and maintain water quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Goldfish are cold water fish and do best between 65F and 72F. A broad spectrum antibiotic can be found in the Aquarium section of the local Petco. These include erythromycin, tetracycline or kanamycin. Brands include Kanaplex, Maracyn , FishMox or FishCillin. Follow label directions carefully and remove the carbon filter insert during treatment if indicated.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on May 27th, 2019

    The attached images are too blurry to determine if the eye ruptured. A rupture is possible, in which case the eye would be lost. To treat it, maintain pristine water quality via filtration and regular partial water changes. Use only conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Use a broad spectrum antibiotic to treat the tank. Find one, or an antibiotic containing food, in the aquarium section of the local Petco. Follow label directions carefully and remove the carbon filter insert during treatment if indicated. If possible, separate the fish to a hospital tank to make treatment easier.

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