Is my betta fish suffering from dropsy?

[coastaline]

I'm getting really worried about my female betta - I think she might have dropsy. I rescued her from the store two weeks ago and she was doing amazing, all set to go to her forever home tomorrow, but then two days ago I noticed her belly just ballooned up. It's this darkish color, which is really weird since she's a pink and white fish. I'm wondering if she might've been pregnant when I got her from the store - is that even possible? She's still acting normal and eating fine, but I'm super confused. Today was a disaster - I had an emergency with her pH levels, they were way too high and really concerning. I had to move her to a divided tank until I can get her water sorted out. Does anyone know if oily poop is a symptom of dropsy?

[coltin]

To better assess the situation, could you please provide some pictures of your betta fish?

Dropsy typically results in rapid bloating, often overnight, accompanied by stringy white poop and scales that stick out around the belly area. Affected fish usually exhibit laboured breathing and a loss of appetite.

However, if your betta's scales aren't protruding and she's eating normally, it's unlikely to be dropsy.

Regarding the oily poop, it's probably related to her diet. Oily poop isn't typically a concern, whereas stringy white poop is a different story. Coloured poop, on the other hand, is usually nothing to worry about.

[coastaline]

I'm still super confused, so what if her poop is white and brown, not just white? And what's with her belly being soooo bloated, is that normal?

[rockyfox]

I'm getting really worried about my female betta - I think she might have dropsy. I rescued her from the store two weeks ago and she was doing amazing, all set to go to her forever home tomorrow, but then two days ago I noticed her belly just ballooned up. It's this darkish color, which is really weird since she's a pink and white fish. I'm wondering if she might've been pregnant when I got her from the store - is that even possible? She's still acting normal and eating fine, but I'm super confused. Today was a disaster - I had an emergency with her pH levels, they were way too high and really concerning. I had to move her to a divided tank until I can get her water sorted out. Does anyone know if oily poop is a symptom of dropsy?

I'd love to see some pics of your betta to get a better idea of what's going on. Pictures can really help us figure this out.

[coltin]

Picclytures and a vid would be super helpful here.

[coastaline]

I'll try to get pics tomorrow, maybe catch her pooping then lol

[finworld]

Fast her for a few days, at least 3, and see how she does. Give her an Epsom salt bath once a day for 4 days, it might help with the bloat. Also, do a 10-25% water change daily for a week or two.

Bettas don't get pregnant, they lay eggs. She might be young or a marble betta, they tend to change colors as they grow.