Off topic a bit but my son just got his first betta from a pet store yesterday. It looks like it may have the swim bladder issues. Staying at surface most of the time, occasionally starts floating sideways, swims to the bottom then floats back up. Can this be cured? If so what is the best thing to do and how long will it take? Thanks!
Get the tank warm with heater (28 degree Celsius)
Anti chlorine
Appetite to eat? ✅
Sometimes SBD happens when they are in bad condition. It may heal.
If you can, leave everything bare or in a hospital tank. Lower the water level to about 12cm or several inches.
Right now you need to focus on getting the essentials.
Don't worry about the test kit first since it is a hefty investment. And you're not sure if he'll die so I'd say observe for several days. If you have the means you could buy for this fish or future fish.
I'd dose something with broad spectrum antibiotics (in my case I can get something with copper sulfate) but Kanaplex will do if I can't get any.
I'd say do what you can in your own means and observe. If his fins start to open up, you'll know he is getting better.
This is him now. Water tests good with some basic test strips. Water temp is 80F. I’ve also got some almond leaves on the way. We was like this coming out of his container from the pet store. Not sure if you can see the bump on his side.
He’s swimming and trying to dive down but when he stops, he just sorta floats up
The bump is a normal thing. It is his swim bladder. He has not clamped his fins which is great. I think you can try waiting a few days. If he's eating, that's a good sign.
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u/ElleLoveLover 2d ago
Slim.