Is there any way for a swim bladder to be 'fixed' when badly damaged? What are recommended treatments for a fish that is no longer mobile? (constantly lies on it's side and does not move except gills and the occasional twitch)
Severe swim bladder problems - cure?
- Thread starter Kitiara
- Start date
If it's been like that for any length of time I would say that it sounds unlikely to recover - euthanasia may be best for the fish.
Some suggest increased temp, addition of epsom salts, or a course of metronidazole to treat swimbladder problems but in this case I doubt anything will work IMO - sorry to say
Some suggest increased temp, addition of epsom salts, or a course of metronidazole to treat swimbladder problems but in this case I doubt anything will work IMO - sorry to say
She has been like that for about a month now, her condition does not appear to change either way. I have used aquarium salt (haven't got any epsom salts) and a number of other medications while trying to figure out the problem. None of my lfs have metronidazole so that is one I haven't tried. She stopped eating a couple of weeks ago and started becoming weaker so I have been force feeding her (she doesn't appreciate that at all, but lacks the strength/ability to get away from me even though when I hold her I'm not really doing anything but supporting her)
It's sad to see her in this condition, but I'd like to know I tried everything before putting her down.
It's sad to see her in this condition, but I'd like to know I tried everything before putting her down.
Sounds like you've done all you reasonably could. I doubt metronidazole would help in this case.
I know it's a hard decision to take but IMO the best option for the fish now is euthanasia.
Sorry
I know it's a hard decision to take but IMO the best option for the fish now is euthanasia.
Sorry
I have bought some epsom salts to try. Am not holding my breath though. I go away on holidays in under a week, if she shows no sign of improvement by then I will euthanise her. She cannot feed herself atm and I doubt she'd survive while I am away (and I wouldn't ask my friend who is on pet feeding duty to look after her)