How to treat Betta fish swim bladder disorder

[luxora]

My betta has been floating sideways and struggling to swim properly. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 5 nitrate. Tank is 5 gallons, heated to 78F, filtered with a sponge filter. Been feeding pellets twice a day. Any ideas what's going on?

[victory]

Sounds like classic swim bladder issues, fam. First, try fasting for a couple days. Then feed daphnia or a pea to help with digestion. Also, check if the pellets are sinking too fast, might be gulping air.

[bytea]

Yo, my dude had the same prob last month. I cut back feeding to once a day and added a tiny bit of aquarium salt. Worked like a charm, but ymmv. Also, make sure the flow isn't too strong, bettas hate that.

[lento]

I agree with fasting. It's helped my fish before. Maybe try lowering the water level a bit too, so they don't have to swim as much while recovering.

[Briko]

What kind of pellets are you feeding? Some brands expand in water and can cause bloating. Soaking them before feeding might help.

[Flynight9]

Yo, my dude had the same prob last month. I cut back feeding to once a day and added a tiny bit of aquarium salt. Worked like a charm, but ymmv. Also, make sure the flow isn't too strong, bettas hate that.

How much salt did you use? I've heard mixed things about dosing.

[metamorph]

Swim bladder disorder can be caused by overfeeding or poor diet. Fast for 2-3 days, then feed high-fiber foods like daphnia. Ensure water quality is pristine, and avoid overfeeding in the future. A shallow tank can help during recovery.

[duskite]

Yeah, fasting is key. Also, check if the fish is constipated. If so, a pea can help, but make sure it's deshelled and mushed up. Bettas are carnivores, so don't overdo the veggies.

[fishtail_9]

I've had success with epsom salt baths for swim bladder issues. 1 tsp per gallon for 15 minutes, max. But only if fasting doesn't work. Also, keep the tank warm and calm.

[blazefox]

My betta had this once. I just stopped feeding for a few days and it sorted itself out. Sometimes they just eat too much, lol.