Dropsy is a severe and often fatal condition in Betta fish characterized by fluid retention and swelling of the body, causing the scales to protrude, giving the fish a pinecone-like appearance. It is usually a symptom of an underlying internal infection or organ failure. Unfortunately, dropsy is challenging to treat and often has a poor prognosis. However, if you notice symptoms of dropsy in your Betta fish, below is some general information on how dropsy is often treated:

• Check Water Parameters:
  • Test the water parameters (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and pH) in the main tank and/or quarantine tank. Poor water quality can stress the fish and exacerbate fin rot. Perform a partial water change if necessary to improve water conditions.
• Maintain Water Quality:
  • Ensure the water in the quarantine tank is clean and free from any harmful substances. Perform regular partial water changes as needed to ensure the parameters are in check.
• Maintain optimal water temperature:
  • Bettas are tropical fish and require a water temperature between 78°F to 80°F (25°C to 27°C). When changing water ensure the new water is the same temperature to avoid shock. Use a reliable aquarium heater and thermometer to maintain a stable temperature in the tank.

• Isolate the Betta (Optional):
  • If you have a separate quarantine tank, isolate the affected Betta fish to prevent the spread of the illness to other tank mates.

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• Lower the water or use a breeder box (Optional):
  • If the betta is having trouble coming up for air, lower the water in the tank.
  • A breeder box can be added so that the betta can easily come up for air. When betta’s get very sick, they will have trouble coming up for air, that’s when these boxes are often used.

• Add an additional air stone (Optional):
  • Another air stone added will add some more surface agitation, creating more oxygen in the water.
  • If an airstone is added, use one with a gangline to adjust the bubbles. Use an airstone that will create small bubbles.
  • Adjust the air stones flow with the gang line so that it is low flow/light bubbles. This is so that it will add more oxygen with the light surface agitation but won’t be too much to where it would stress the betta.

• Salt Bath (Optional):
  • Some fish keepers use a short Epsom salt bath to help relieve fluid retention. Prepare a separate container with water treated with Epsom salt (1 teaspoon per gallon) at the same temperature as the main tank. Be sure it is pure Epsom salt without any additives.
  • Place the Betta fish in the Epsom salt bath for about 10-15 minutes. The Epsom salt may help reduce swelling, but it is not a cure for dropsy.

• Medication commonly used:
  • While there is no specific medication to treat dropsy directly, you can try using a broad-spectrum antibiotic that treats internal bacterial infections, like Kanaplex, However, success rates are generally low, but it is possible.

• Optimize Diet:
  • Offer your Betta fish a high-quality diet to support its immune system and overall health. Consider feeding small amounts of high-protein foods like frozen or live foods.
• Isolate from Other Fish:
  • If your Betta is in a community tank, it’s essential to isolate the sick fish to prevent the potential spread of infection.
• Monitor Behavior:
  • Keep a close eye on your Betta’s behavior and condition. Dropsy can progress rapidly, so monitor any changes and seek immediate veterinary attention if needed.
• Consult a Fish Veterinarian:
  • Dropsy is often a symptom of a severe underlying health issue, and treatment options are limited. If your Betta’s condition worsens or does not improve with supportive care, consult a qualified fish veterinarian with experience in treating Betta fish.

It’s important to be aware that dropsy is challenging to treat successfully, and even with the best care, the outcome may not be favorable. In some cases, euthanasia may be the most humane option to prevent unnecessary suffering. If you ever find yourself in such a difficult situation, consult with a veterinarian to make an informed decision about your Betta fish’s well-being.