When to see a vet for your Betta

[cruiz]

My betta's been acting weird lately, like he's not eating much and just kinda chillin' at the bottom. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Tank's a 5 gallon with a sponge filter, heated to 78. When should I start worrying and take him to a vet?

[rockstar]

If he's not eating and staying at the bottom for more than a couple days, it's sketchy. Check for other signs like clamped fins or rapid breathing. Sometimes it's just stress, but if it's persistent, a vet might cut it.

[foxhunter]

Yep, gotta agree with rockstar. My dude did the same thing last month, turned out he had a mild infection. I added some aquarium salt and did daily water changes, but if yours ain't improving, a vet's the way to go.

[guppyroam]

Yep, gotta agree with rockstar. My dude did the same thing last month, turned out he had a mild infection. I added some aquarium salt and did daily water changes, but if yours ain't improving, a vet's the way to go.

How much salt did you use? I've heard mixed things about dosing for bettas.

[foxhunter]

I did 1 tsp per gallon, but only for like 3 days. Then back to normal water changes. Some folks say it's too much, but it worked for me. Just keep an eye on 'em.

[cruiz]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try the salt and see if he perks up. If not, I'll find a vet.

[rockstar]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try the salt and see if he perks up. If not, I'll find a vet.

Good call. Also, make sure the salt's fully dissolved before adding it. Undissolved grains can mess with their slime coat.

[guppyroam]

And if you do end up at the vet, ask about internal parasites. Sometimes they're the culprit when everything else checks out. Had a betta years ago who just needed a round of meds and was fine after.