My betta fish has a swollen stomach. Can I take it to a fish vet?

Thanks for reaching out about Jeff and including photos. A swollen abdomen can be the accumulation of fluid, possibly due to diseases of the gills, heart, liver, lungs or something internal producing fluid. Sinking to the bottom, probably due to the fluid on the abdomen preventing the swim bladder from filling, therefore affecting buoyancy. First, test and correct water quality, as even small problems can lead to gill damage and the influx of water into the body, therefore the fluid. Adding non-iodized salt can decrease the water gradient into the body, relieving some symptoms but is not a cure. Salt from the pet store should have a dose. A veterinary visit is needed to assess if you want a more definitive answer. Good answer.

This is difficult to determine exactly from the picture you posted. There seems to be a mild swelling which could be completely normal at this stage (especially if not other signs are present). Please complete your question adding other pictures (one from above would be quite helpful) and describing if other signs are present or not to receive more answers from us.

Thanks for reaching out about Bubbles and including a photo. Abdominal distention (often termed "dropsy") can be due to accumulated fluid, eggs, enlarged organs or displaced swim bladder. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Store purchased medications are a waste of monies and will not fix anything. A diagnosis needs to be made to effectively treat. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Star. The abdomen can be distended due to multiple reasons. Constipation is one, but abdominal fluid, masses, swim bladder disease, are all possible. If eating and defecation, not constipated. A veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

I would be concerned about a possible swim bladder disease. I would recommend trying to get him to a vet that sees fish to help you. The causes of swim bladder disease is not know. It is thought that it is linked to an infectious disease. So oscar might need antibiotics to help him feel better.

By your description, there may be seversl issues here. Check the water chemistry and quality. Use a home test kit or submit a water sample for testing. The local Petco may do this for free or for a small fee. Ideally, you want the following parameters: 0 ppm ammonia, 0 ppm nitrites, 20 ppm or less nitrates, pH around 7, water temperature between 78 F and 80 F. Perform partial water changes to stabilize chemistry and/or to improve water quality. Use only conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. Decrease the water level to make it easier for your fish to surface. Fast him for 2-3 days then feed bits of cooked and shelled green peas until swimming and defecation are normal. If he remains bloated, prepare a bowl of water at the proper temperature and dissolve 1 tablespoon of Epsom salt for each gallon. Allow for a 15-30 minute swim once or twice daily. In the main tank, use an antibiotic, such ad Kanaplex or Maracyn, to treat infection/fin rot. A conditioner such as StressCoat can also help fins. These products can be found in the aquarium section of the local Petco. Follow label directions carefully and remove the carbon filter insert during treatment if indicated.

Thanks for reaching out about Coco and including pictures. Swellings on one side of the body are often an indication of an internal mass. That could be a intestinal blockage, displaced swim bladder or an enlarged organ. Check water quality and correct any concerns. A veterinarian should be contacted for possible treatments, but also contacting the person/business you purchased her from would also be a good idea. This isn't much you can do for these problems at home. Good luck.