how to treat swim bladder disorder in Bettas

[oceanmist_9]

My betta's been floating weirdly at the top of the tank, kinda sideways. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Tank's a 5 gallon with a sponge filter, heated to 78F. Been feeding pellets but switched to daphnia yesterday. Any other tips?

[guppy]

Sounds like swim bladder for sure. I'd fast them for a couple days, then try frozen peas with the skin removed. Also, keep the water clean with small daily changes. Had a similar issue last year and that combo worked wonders.

[foxrun]

Sounds like swim bladder for sure. I'd fast them for a couple days, then try frozen peas with the skin removed. Also, keep the water clean with small daily changes. Had a similar issue last year and that combo worked wonders.

Yep, peas are a lifesaver. Just make sure they're blanched and mushy. Also, check if your pellets are sinking too fast, might be causing them to gulp air.

[Solarcrest]

I'd skip the peas and go for epsom salt baths instead. 1 tsp per gallon for 15 minutes, max twice a day. Works like a charm for bloating and swim bladder issues. Just make sure to dissolve it fully first.

[flintx]

Had this happen to my boy last month. Raised the temp to 80F, added a bit of aquarium salt, and fasted for three days. He was back to normal after a week. Sometimes it's just overfeeding, so watch portion sizes.

[Luno]

Why's everyone suggesting peas? Bettas are carnivores. Daphnia's a better choice, or even brine shrimp. Peas might just make it worse if they're not used to plant matter.

[raynigma]

Why's everyone suggesting peas? Bettas are carnivores. Daphnia's a better choice, or even brine shrimp. Peas might just make it worse if they're not used to plant matter.

Peas can help with digestion though, even if they're not a staple. But yeah, daphnia's probably safer long-term.

[caninefan]

My betta had this last winter. I did the fasting thing, then fed him soaked pellets to soften them up. Also bumped the temp a bit. Took about five days but he's fine now. Just gotta be patient.

[angler_7]

Never had luck with peas. Epsom salt baths and fasting always did it for me. Just keep an eye on them, some bettas are more sensitive than others.

[JazzWing]

Is swim bladder disorder always caused by overfeeding? My fish hasn't been overfed but still floats weird.