Below is a comprehensive treatment plan for betta fish dropsy, compiled from practical experience across multiple sources:
I. Cause Identification
Betta fish dropsy is mainly caused by poor water quality, overfeeding, or digestive system infections. Its symptoms include abdominal swelling, abnormal defecation, or the fish staying at the bottom of the tank without moving.
II. Core Treatment Steps
1. Environmental Adjustment
Water Change: Immediately replace 50% of the tank water with temperature-matched purified water or aged tap water (water temperature difference ≤ 1℃).
Temperature Elevation: Maintain the water temperature at 28-30℃ (82.4-86°F) and avoid temperature fluctuations.
Quiet Rest: Transfer the fish to a dark or low-light environment to minimize disturbances.
2. Fasting Treatment
Stop feeding the fish for 3-7 days to allow it to naturally expel undigested food or accumulated fluid in the abdomen.
During the recovery period, reduce the feeding amount to 1/3 of the normal portion and avoid high-protein feed.
3. Medication Support
Antibiotics: Use metronidazole (crush and add 0.1g per 10L of water) or norfloxacin (add the powder from the capsule to the water).
Disinfectant: Use methylene blue (soak the fish in water that turns light blue) to prevent secondary infections.
III. Warnings for Controversial Practices
Fluid Extraction Surgery: Some fish keepers attempt to puncture the abdomen to extract fluid, but this may worsen damage to the fish’s body and results in a low recovery rate.
Overmedication: Drugs like oxytetracycline and gentamicin require strict dosage control—weak fish are prone to death from drug toxicity.
IV. Preventive Measures
Feeding Control: Feed 1-2 pieces of pre-soaked feed per day to avoid intestinal blockage caused by unexpanded dry feed.
Water Quality Management: Replace 1/3 of the tank water weekly and use a filtration system to reduce organic matter buildup.
Defecation Observation: If the fish does not defecate for 24 hours, intervene immediately.
V. Treatment Cycle and Effect
Mild cases show improvement within 3-5 days, while severe cases require continuous treatment for 7-10 days.
During the recovery period, gradually increase the feeding amount and avoid water quality deterioration.