How to spot Betta fish illness early

[flyby_1]

Noticed my betta acting sluggish lately, fins clamped most of the day. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Tank's a 5 gallon with a sponge filter, heated to 78F. Any tips on what to look for before it gets worse?

[Lively]

What's their eating routine like? Mine stopped eating for a day once and turned out to be the start of fin rot. Could be stress too if you've changed anything recently.

[Lumpo]

Clamped fins are usually a red flag. Check for white spots or fuzzy patches, those mean parasites or fungus. Also, how often do you do water changes? Even with good params, buildup can mess with them.

[Kalani]

What's their eating routine like? Mine stopped eating for a day once and turned out to be the start of fin rot. Could be stress too if you've changed anything recently.

Yep, fin rot's sneaky like that. Mine had it and I didn't notice till his tail looked ragged. OP, you got any pics of your fish? Easier to spot weird vibes that way.

[flyby_1]

Thanks for the quick replies. He's still eating, just slower than usual. Did a 20% water change two days ago, same routine as always. No new tankmates or decor. Gonna check for spots when the light's brighter tomorrow.

[Lumpo]

If he's eating, that's a decent sign. Maybe try fasting him for a day, then offer something high-protein like brine shrimp. Sometimes their digestion gets sketchy.

[Kalani]

Also, keep an eye on how he breathes. If he's gasping at the surface a lot, could be gill issues. Had that happen once with a rescue betta, turned out the previous owner overdosed meds.

[Lively]

If he's eating, that's a decent sign. Maybe try fasting him for a day, then offer something high-protein like brine shrimp. Sometimes their digestion gets sketchy.

That's solid advice. Mine perks up after a fasting day. Just don't skip more than two days, they're little gluttons.

[flyby_1]

Appreciate all the help, everyone. Gonna monitor him closely and try the fasting tip. Will update if anything changes.