My goldfish's tail looks bitten off with exposed spines. What's wrong?

Question

My goldfish's tail is damaged. The fin looks bitten off as there are exposed spines where the tail fin should be. There is also a red color that looks to be blood on the base of the tail, as well as the side of the dorsal fin close to the tail. It is also wiggling it's tail frantically when swimming. Pet's info: Fish | Gold Fish

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM · Accepted Answer

By your description, it could be fin rot and a bacterial infection.  Clean water is key in treating any infection. Check water chemistry using a home test kit or by submitting a water sample for testing. Aim for 0 ppm ammonia and nitrites with a 40ppm or less nitrate level. Perform partial water changes to stabilize chemistry and maintain water quality. Use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. A bit of aquarium salt (NOT table or Epsom salt) can be used as a general tonic to reduce stress, treat minor infection and aid in any recovery. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt per gallon of water in a cup of tank water and gently pour it into the tank. Treat for 10-14 days then reassess fin condition. More water changes can be done afterwards to reduce salinity.

My goldfish's tail looks bitten off with exposed spines. What's wrong?

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