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My goldfish has fin rot and is laying on her side. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Gold Fish | Female | unspayed

It seems like my black telescope goldfish has the beginning signs of fin rot. The ends of her fins are lightening and occasionally she is laying on her side. I used melafix tonight but i am scared she won’t make it to the morning. Any suggestions??

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on February 20th, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about Pebbles. First, check water quality for pH, ammonia, nitrites and nitrates. Correct any problems as sub-standard water quality can lead to dermal (fin) damage. Melafix will not correct water quality and has shown little evidence to be effective. A veterinary visit can assess and help determine a diagnosis/treatment plan. Antibiotics added to the water are not absorbed systemically but might help with topical infections but a diagnosis should be made first. Good luck.

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