how to treat popeye in Bettas

[Cobyx]

My betta's eyes are lookin' all swollen, like popeye. What's the best way to treat this? Tank's a 5 gallon, heated to 78, filtered with a sponge. Been doin' weekly water changes, 25%, but it's been like this for a few days now.

[OceanBloom9]

Popeye's usually from bacterial infections or poor water quality. First, test your water for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. If those are good, try treating with aquarium salt, 1 tsp per gallon, and maybe an antibiotic like erythromycin. Keep the water super clean, maybe bump changes to 30% every few days.

[fruitygal]

Popeye's usually from bacterial infections or poor water quality. First, test your water for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate. If those are good, try treating with aquarium salt, 1 tsp per gallon, and maybe an antibiotic like erythromycin. Keep the water super clean, maybe bump changes to 30% every few days.

Yep, agree with this. Also, make sure your filter isn't too strong, 'cause stress can make it worse. What's your betta's behavior like? Still eating?

[pixelion]

Man, popeye's a pain. Had it once, thought my fish was gonna kick it. Salt helped, but honestly, kanaplex was the real MVP. Just don't go overboard with meds, 'cause that's sketchy too. How long's it been since you noticed the swelling?

[flameon]

Gotta second the water testing. If params are off, no meds gonna cut it. Also, check for any sharp decor. Sometimes physical damage starts it. My guy got it from a crappy plastic plant.

[phytowave]

Hope your fish feels better soon! Clean water's key, like everyone's saying. Maybe add some Indian almond leaves too, they've got antibacterial properties and can help soothe the fish.

[Cobyx]

Thanks for the tips, y'all. Gonna test the water tonight and grab some salt. He's still eating, just slower than usual. Appreciate the help!

[OceanBloom9]

Thanks for the tips, y'all. Gonna test the water tonight and grab some salt. He's still eating, just slower than usual. Appreciate the help!

Good to hear he's eating. Keep an eye on the swelling, and if it doesn't improve in a week, consider the antibiotics. Let us know how it goes.

[fruitygal]

Also, if you're using salt, remember to dissolve it in tank water before adding. Dumping it straight in can irritate the fish more. Learned that the hard way.

[pixelion]

Also, if you're using salt, remember to dissolve it in tank water before adding. Dumping it straight in can irritate the fish more. Learned that the hard way.

Oh yeah, that's a pro tip. Almost nuked my shrimp tank once doin' that. Not a chill vibe.