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My betta fish won't eat after tank upgrade. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Betta | Male

So I have a beta fish and it is now growing so we decided to put it in a bigger tank. After we put it in a bigger tank, it has stopped eating and it is so hard to make it eat. I don't really know what to do.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 18th, 2018

He has to get used to his home. Moving him to a new tank can be stressful. Fish can handle not eating for up to two weeks, so there is no big worry yet, Make sure his water temperature is adequately warm. If the water is too cold, he will not be hungry. 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.

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