Why is my fish sick, not eating or swimming after water change?

Question

My fish was happy until now. I noticed she would dart back and forth erratically, sometimes jumping, and would get red streaks on her body. A week ago I noticed white bumps and thought maybe doing a natural ich treatment would help. During treatment she got worse since she started sitting in a corner not moving or eating. We completely cleaned that water, and she finally seemed better, but now she’s not wanting to swim or eat. Does she have something serious? Should I clean her water again? Pet's info: Fish | Gold Fish | Female | unspayed

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

The water change may have upset the balance in the tank. Check water quality using a home test kit or by submitting a water sample for testing. the local Petco may do this for free or for a small fee. Elevated ammonia or nitrite levels may cause the symptoms reported. Aim for an absence (0 ppm) of ammonia and nitrites with nitrates at 20 ppm or less. If necessary, perform a partial water change (no more than 30% total volume at a time). Use only conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Goldfish are cold water fish and do best between 65 F and 72 F. If the symptoms return, use a broad spectrum antibiotic or an "all in one" treatment. Either can be found in the Aquarium section of the local Petco. Follow label directions and remove the carbon filter insert during treatment if indicated.

Why is my fish sick, not eating or swimming after water change?

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