Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

My betta fish has dropsy symptoms: bloated, scales out. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Betta | Male | unneutered

Hi Doctor, my betta fish is showing symptoms of dropsy. He is not having food for the last 2 days, stomach bloated, sinking to the bottom and scales protruding like thorn. Please help with the treatment methods

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on March 20th, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about Clara. First, test and correct water quality as this is a common factor in illness. Dropsy is a clinical sign of fluid or a mass in the abdomen. The cause needs to be determined prior to effective treatment. Adding non-iodized salt to the tank could slow down the water gradient into the body but is not a treatment. For a diagnosis, a veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Sponsored