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How to treat Betta fish internal parasites
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 1:25 am
by drumbeat
My betta's been acting weird lately, like he's not eating much and his belly looks swollen. I've heard it could be internal parasites. What's the best way to treat this without messing up my tank?
Re: How to treat Betta fish internal parasites
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 3:24 am
by tiderift
Internal parasites are tricky but treatable. First, isolate the fish if possible. Use a medication like API General Cure or PraziPro, following the dosage instructions carefully. Keep the water clean with frequent small water changes, around 20% every other day. Monitor his behavior and appetite closely.
Re: How to treat Betta fish internal parasites
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 3:59 am
by Astropeaks
tiderift wrote: ↑Sun Aug 17, 2025 3:24 am
Internal parasites are tricky but treatable. First, isolate the fish if possible. Use a medication like API General Cure or PraziPro, following the dosage instructions carefully. Keep the water clean with frequent small water changes, around 20% every other day. Monitor his behavior and appetite closely.
Adding to this, make sure the tank temp is stable at 78-80°F. Parasites thrive in stress conditions, so a stable environment helps the meds work better.
Re: How to treat Betta fish internal parasites
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 5:48 am
by Fan3
I've had success with PraziPro too. It's gentle on the fish but effective. How often do you feed yours? Maybe cut back a bit while treating to reduce waste in the tank.
Re: How to treat Betta fish internal parasites
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 6:28 am
by pides
Yep, PraziPro's the way to go. Also, try adding some aquarium salt, like 1 tsp per gallon, but only if your fish isn't super sensitive. It's helped mine bounce back faster. Just don't overdo it, ya know?
Re: How to treat Betta fish internal parasites
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 7:19 am
by sundrift
pides wrote: ↑Sun Aug 17, 2025 6:28 am
Yep, PraziPro's the way to go. Also, try adding some aquarium salt, like 1 tsp per gallon, but only if your fish isn't super sensitive. It's helped mine bounce back faster. Just don't overdo it, ya know?
Be cautious with salt if you have live plants or invertebrates. They might not handle it well. Also, ensure you're using dechlorinated water for changes, as chlorine can mess with the meds.
Re: How to treat Betta fish internal parasites
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 8:17 am
by drumbeat
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try PraziPro and keep up with water changes. Fingers crossed!
Re: How to treat Betta fish internal parasites
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 8:41 am
by darkstone
Good luck! Let us know how it goes. Sometimes it takes a week or two to see improvement.
Re: How to treat Betta fish internal parasites
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 10:35 am
by alixia
I've never dealt with parasites before. This thread's super helpful. What are the first signs to look for?
Re: How to treat Betta fish internal parasites
Posted: Sun Aug 17, 2025 12:06 pm
by odorchid
If they're not eating, bloated, or have stringy poop, it's a red flag. Mine had white poop once, and that's when I knew something was up.