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How to treat Betta fish constipation
Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2025 4:01 am
by dirtknight9
My betta hasn't pooped in a couple days and looks bloated. I've been feeding him pellets twice a day, but now he's just sitting at the bottom. What's the best way to help him out?
Re: How to treat Betta fish constipation
Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2025 5:05 am
by dawnlyn
First thing, skip feeding for a day or two. Bettas can go without food for a bit, and fasting often helps with bloating. You can also try feeding a bit of daphnia or boiled pea (just a tiny piece) as a laxative. What's your tank temp? Cooler water can slow their digestion.
Re: How to treat Betta fish constipation
Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2025 5:13 am
by creeko
dawnlyn wrote: ↑Wed Aug 06, 2025 5:05 am
First thing, skip feeding for a day or two. Bettas can go without food for a bit, and fasting often helps with bloating. You can also try feeding a bit of daphnia or boiled pea (just a tiny piece) as a laxative. What's your tank temp? Cooler water can slow their digestion.
Yep, dawnlyn's spot on. I'd add that epsom salt baths can help too, 1 tbsp per gallon for 15 mins max. Just make sure it's pure epsom salt, no additives.
Re: How to treat Betta fish constipation
Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2025 6:35 am
by morningglow_9
How often are you doing water changes? Dirty water can mess with their digestion. Also, those pellets might be too big. Try crushing 'em or switching to something smaller. My guy had the same issue till I swapped to micro pellets.
Re: How to treat Betta fish constipation
Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2025 7:34 am
by Rivera1
I've heard mixed things about peas. Some say it's great, others say bettas can't digest plant matter well. Daphnia's a safer bet, imo. You got any live food options? That usually gets things moving.
Re: How to treat Betta fish constipation
Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2025 9:00 am
by dixin
Rivera1 wrote: ↑Wed Aug 06, 2025 7:34 am
I've heard mixed things about peas. Some say it's great, others say bettas can't digest plant matter well. Daphnia's a safer bet, imo. You got any live food options? That usually gets things moving.
Yeah, peas are kinda sketchy for bettas. Daphnia or brine shrimp work better. If you're stuck with pellets, soak 'em first so they're easier to digest.
Re: How to treat Betta fish constipation
Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2025 9:24 am
by dirtknight9
Thanks for the tips, everyone. Gonna try fasting him first, then maybe the epsom salt if he doesn't improve. Tank's at 78°F, and I do 20% water changes weekly.
Re: How to treat Betta fish constipation
Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2025 11:07 am
by Oceanus
Constipation is often caused by overfeeding. Reduce feeding to once a day, and ensure the pellets are appropriate size. Monitor the fish for improvement.
Re: How to treat Betta fish constipation
Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2025 11:53 am
by anglerx
My betta had this issue last month. Skipped food for two days, then fed daphnia. Cleared right up. Maybe your guy just needs a break from the pellets.
Re: How to treat Betta fish constipation
Posted: Wed Aug 06, 2025 1:21 pm
by Riverwolf
Poor little guy. Hope he feels better soon. Keep us posted on how he's doing. Sometimes just a little extra care makes all the difference.