My Betta fish spits out food. Should I feed it bloodworms and garlic?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
My Betta fish keeps spitting out its food. I feed it "XL color granules" mixed with "color flakes" its tank mate is a molly. I heard you can get bloodworms and soak them in garlic guard and they will eat it. Is this true? Thank you. -Cristina
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 10th, 2018
Thanks for reaching out about Betty. First, try the blood worms prior to soaking in garlic solution, to monitor ingestion. Garlic can be used to treat some parasitic infestations, and not sure if this is a parasitic problem. Calcium deficiencies can lead to oral boney problems, resulting in inability to swallow food. Iodine deficiencies can lead to thyroid enlargement, also making swallowing difficult. Try the different food first. If swallowing difficulty is monitored, a veterinary visit is recommended for a diagnosis and treatment. Good luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on December 6th, 2019
Thanks for reaching out about Blew and including a photo. Bloodworms are a poor diet for betta fish, lacking vitamins and minerals. Check and correct water quality for pH, ammonia, nitrites and nitrates. Betta fish need to eat a pelleted diet that is fortified in vitamins and minerals. Packets of food should be replaced every 2-3 months as vitamins degrade quickly. If anorexia continues, a veterinary visit is recommended to test for intestinal, gill or skin parasites which can cause anorexia, along with other problems. Good luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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