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You are here: Experts > Animals/Pets > Pet Fish > Fish > Beta Question
Expert: Amber Worman
Date: 11/4/2007
Subject: Beta Question
Question
A friend at work keeps a Betta in his office. The bowl the fish is in is not heated and is not near a heat source. As of a day ago the fish has started taking it's food pellets into his mouth, chewing them and spitting them out. The food has not changed. Before he spits them out a bubble comes out of his mouth. When viewed from above the fish seems to have a slightly extended right side.
Any ideas what may be causing the fish difficulties in eating? He has been kept in this bowl since May and the water is changed weekly. Up until now he's been fine.
Thank you,
Kelly
Answer
Hello Kelly-
Your friend's fish may have developed a tumor (this is fairly common) or is beginning to develop dropsy. Dropsy, unfortunately, is almost always fatal. Some of the more common signs of dropsy include lethargy and scales that "stick up" around the fish's midsection. Tumors, on the other hand, can look like fluid-filled bubbles with smooth scales. A fish with a tumor can live a full, healthy life, so long as the tumor does not affect any vital organs.
To encourage your friend's fish to eat, the first step is to fast the fish for a day. Withhold all food, and allow the fish's digestive system to clean itself out. Resume feeding the next day, but only offer half the usual amount. If the fish still struggles, try crushing the pellets into small particles. Continue feeding until the fish is able to eat vigorously. It may take a while, but it is very common for fish to stop eating if they are not feeling well. If at all possible, move the fish to a warmer location - this will act as an appetite stimulant since it is closer to the betta's natural environment.
Hope this helps,
Amber Worman
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