Tropical Fish Forums

[nenapod2]

The betta doesn't have a pinecone appearence. Just a large, yellow sac (looks almost hollow) and his scales do not stick out. I think I'll be treating him for constipation and dropsy.

But he definitely is sick; he's listless and sits at the bottom of the tank (but he does move around often, just he seems to tire easy).

[unissuh]

Hm, this is just one thing I'll never get used to...the almost wanton availability of effective antibiotic treatment in other parts of the world. All antibiotic treatments have to go through vets here, there are also fewer choices of medications. I have to admit that this method of doing things has one positive point - it stops everyone from simply throwing around antibiotics when they are not needed, and reduces the amount of people improperly dosing.

What am I trying to say? In my opinion, don't treat for dropsy. If there is no 'pine-cone' appearance, it is almost certainly constipation alone and antibiotics (the only effective medication) are not necessary.
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Fishing in the Rivers of Light

[nightngle]

While I'm not a fish disease expert, as a nurse the first thing I thought of is that the swelling looks like an abcess. I also agree that antibiotics are over-used, but this case seems like a reasonable one to use antibiotics with, especially since it has a yellow apprearance. At any rate, if it was my fish, I'd treat with antibiotics.

Certainly take the advice to treat him for constipation, too - a short fast then giving part of a pea would be good for him as well.

Please keep us posted - we'll send positive thoughts his and your way!