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Why is my betta fish not eating, bloated, and has white spots?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish

My betta fish doesn't want to eat My betta fish doesn't want to eat. He's blowted from one side. He has some white spots. My husband rescued him and another betta fish yesterday from an apartment were he works remodeling. They abandoned them and there water was filthy. He doesn't want to swim.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on July 10th, 2018

It is critical to get them into clean water. Get some water conditioner from the local pet store if possible. Tetra AquaSafe can be used or you can use Prime. These products make the water safe for the fish. They must be kept separate also. Keep water temperature between 78 F and 80 F. You may need to perform partial water changes frequently to maintain clean water, especially if you don't have a filter. Epsom salt (NOT table salt or aquarium salt) may help the bloating if it is due to constipation. Dissolve 1 tablespoon of epsom salt in one gallon of water and allow a 10-15 minute swim once daily before returning him to the main tank/bowl. Do not feed him for 2-3 days, then feed tiny bits of cooked and shelled green peas until swimming and defecating are normal.

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