My fish is rubbing and acting strange. Is it parasites? What's safe for my tank?

Question

The fish has attacks of fast uncontrolled movement since we have it. Sometimes it hits itself on walls and objects. Lately it lays down on the floor on the side and rubs itself on objects. It got scratches all over and hurt his eye. It eats normally. No visible parasites, but seems something itches it on the skin. We bought Imagitarum Parasites Remedy, but hesitate to use it as some reviews say fish died of it. We also have shrimps and snails. Should we use the remedy?

Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

It certainly sounds like something is irritating this fish. Most often it is caused by parasites, usually ich. With ich you sometimes see salt like spots on the fins, you also may see a dusting in the dark if you shine a light. Other things that could cause itching would be irritants such as high ammonia levels. Personally I do not like adding chemicals to the water, especially not with other species such as snails and shrimp. To treat ich you can simply increase the water temperature and you can bathe the individual in salty water.

My fish is rubbing and acting strange. Is it parasites? What's safe for my tank?

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