Why is my axolotl acting strange, not eating, and has a dark belly?

Treating him yourself would not be recommended as you may cause injury. If the rock was small, he may eventually pass it. Maintain pristine water quality and proper temp. Monitor his appetite and stool output. If there is a veterinarian nearby with experience treating axolotls, then an exam would be strongly recommended in case surgery is required to remove the rock. Fridging Nox may also be recommended. You can read more about the process at the link below. https://www.caudata.org/axolotl-sanctuary/Fridging.shtml

Check the water quality and temperature. Perform partial water changes every few days to maintain pristine water quality. Use only conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent further stress or shock. Clean water is the foundation for healing and recovery. If there is no change, consider an exam with your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating axolotls. They can be sensitive to medications, so a doctor's advice after an exam would be safest.

Thanks for reaching out about Pearl. Amphibian husbandry can be tricky. Measuring other water parameters is important (pH, ammonia, nitrates) and water must be clean. Try offering different types of foods: invertebrates, fish, pellets. If problems continue, a visit to a veterinarian with experience with exotics might be needed. Good luck.

I really think you need to go with the recommended temperatures. Temperatures that are too high (over 74F) are associated with heat stress and death in these guys. An ideal temperature range is the low to mid 60s. An aquarium chiller is recommended if you cannot get the temperature low enough. I suggest you refer to this article: ( http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Frogs-Amphibians/Axolotl/ )

A combination of salt baths and fridging may ease symptoms. If liver failure has been diagnosed, this is usually a terminal illness. Recommended salt concentration is 2-3 teaspoons of aquarium salt per liter of dechlorinated water. Baths should be 10-15 minutes duration. Fridging can be done in conjunction to reduce stress and aid in recovery. There is a guide to fridging at the link below. http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/85263-axolotl-fridging-guide.html

Check the water temperature. Low temps can affect appetite and digestion in fish. Angels do best between 78 F and 80 F. You can soak food in garlic juice to stimulate his appetite. Next, check the water chemistry. This can be done using a home test kit or by submitting a water sample for testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or for a small fee. Confirm 0 ppm ammonia and nitrites with nitrates at 40ppm or less in a tank with live plants or 20 ppm or less in an unplanted tank. Partial water changes can be done, if indicated, to stabilize chemistry and/or maintain water quality. use only aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent stress or shock. Although they do best in slightly acidic and soft water, they are quite adaptable. Fast him for 2-3 days then feed bits of cooked and shelled green peas. if he is constipated then this should him him get regular again. A broad spectrum parasite medication, such as PraziPro, should be considered. You can find it in the aquarium section of the local Petco. Follow label directions carefully.

Thanks for reaching out about Cherub and including a picture. Amphibians are delicate animals and water quality is very important. Testing the wear quality regularly (at least once daily) for pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate are a must. Any abnormalities need to be addressed as soon as possible. Water also must be kept cool and stable. Amphibians do not do well with temperature changes. A varied insect diet also is important. Live insects, kept in good condition, will provide a wide variety of vitamins and mineral, protein and fat. Read up on what you need to do and b proactive with problems.