My betta fish's fins are curling and he's not eating. Is he sick?

Question

He's a full grown betta fish, I've had him for a little over half a year, adopted him from a friend. He has a filter and a heater in his tank & I try to stick with recommended products. As of the last couple months, his fins are curling up in the back and he will only eat one pellet every other day or so. I had been feeding him three pellets twice daily. Last week I started cleaning his 1 gallon tank twice a week instead of once a week, and am considering upgrading to a 2.5 gallon tank instead. Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male

Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

These signs are unfortunately quite generic (even though the fin curling could be due to a bacterial infection). A quite radical but logic approach is needed in your case. Begin by submitting a water sample for quality testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or a nominal fee. Clinical examination should always include a water quality check, even if you have done so already. Water testing should be performed with a quality test kit, measuring NH4, NO2 and NO3. High ammonia levels, PH imbalances may be responsible for these signs. Oxygen concentration and quality of the filters should be determined as well. If water quality is good and there are no major imbalances, your fish should get examined to look for any sign of bacterial/fungal infection and eventually water should be treated. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

My betta fish's fins are curling and he's not eating. Is he sick?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?

Share