10 Signs Your Betta Fish Is Sick & How to Help

Loss of Appetite: If your Betta fish is not eating or showing interest in food, it could be a sign of illness. Try offering different types of food and ensure water quality is optimal.

Lethargy: If your Betta fish is spending more time resting at the bottom of the tank or floating near the surface, it may indicate illness.

Clamped Fins: Clamped fins, where the fins are held close to the body, can indicate stress or illness.

Erratic Swimming: If your Betta fish is swimming erratically, darting around the tank, or struggling to maintain balance, it could be a sign of illness.

Faded Color: A loss of color or dullness in your Betta fish's scales can indicate stress or illness. Ensure water quality is optimal and provide a varied diet rich in nutrients.

Inflamed Gills: Red, swollen, or inflamed gills may indicate a respiratory infection or water quality issues. Test water parameters and consider increasing aeration in the tank.

Visible Parasites: If you notice small white spots (Ich), tiny worms, or other parasites on your Betta fish's body, it's essential to address the issue promptly.

Bloating: Bloating or swelling in the abdomen can indicate a digestive issue or internal infection. Consider fasting your Betta fish for a day or two and feed a high-quality, easily digestible food afterward.

Fin Rot: Frayed or disintegrating fins can be a sign of fin rot, a bacterial infection common in Betta fish.

Excessive Scratching: If your Betta fish is rubbing against tank decorations or substrate excessively, it may indicate the presence of parasites or irritation.