I’m really not sure if we have a swim bladder issue or something else. He was a rescue. Half dead at the pet store. They just gave me him for free. I’ve been doing Paraguard and Epsom salt baths. Almond leaves for tannins in his hospital tank. Heater with a bubbler.

Fasted for 3 days.

I did the research on aquarium salt VS Epsom for treatment. It seems like Epsom salt has more success. We tried a pea as well, but he didn’t care much for it. He did eat a little daphnia.

Is he just going to be a handicapped fish forever? I will definitely provide the best care I can for him. But I also don’t want to make him suffer.

I’m open to suggestions and advice. Constructive feedback.



https://v.redd.it/2zvsr92y3wpg1

Posted by itsthehailbale

5 Comments

  1. You’re doing a great job so far. Bettas tend to have relatively delicate digestive systems, which makes them more prone to constipation and swim bladder issues.
    There are many possible stress factors, but one of the biggest risks is temperature fluctuation. From what I’ve seen, heaters can sometimes be underpowered for the tank size, which leads to unstable temperatures.
    Personally, I recommend using a heater rated around 1.5× the suggested capacity to maintain a more stable environment.

  2. jeremiahk1997 on

    Do you have a thermometer in there? I bought the same heater for 2.5gal and it does nothing.

    Might be silly but did you check his poophole? My first betta I got from a petstore was very bloated like yours and I noticed too late but he had camallanous worms hanging out

  3. pancakedemon3 on

    I’m glad you’re taking care of him, but at least give the poor guy a name. Calling him your project is so cold, he’s not a science experiment he’s a lil guy!

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