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My Betta fish has clamped fins and also spots on it's head. What is wrong with it?

My Betta fish has clamped fins and also spots on it's head. What is wrong with it?

Updated On July 25th, 2017

Pet's info: Fish | Unknown - Fish | Male

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

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Clamped fins can be indicative of stress. White spots may be bacterial, fungal or parasite infection. Check the water temperature and quality. The ideal water temperature is between 78 F and 80 F. When testing water chemistry, ammonia and nitrites should read 0 ppm (parts per million) and nitrates can be 40ppm or less. Perform a partial water change, no more than 30%, using aged or conditioned water that is temperature matched to prevent shock. Plain aquarium salt (NOT table salt) can be used to treat many conditions and aid healing. Dissolve 1 teaspoon per gallon of water into the tank or bowl. Treat for 7-14 days. This can be used concurrently with an antifungal or antibiotic for the tank. You can purchase either in the aquarium section of most pet stores or online. Follow label directions carefully.

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Although a picture of it would definitively help to understand more specifically the underlying cause, this presentation may be due to a bacterial or fungal infection. In your case I would recommend a radical but logic approach. Start by submitting a water sample for quality testing. Most pet stores will do this for free or a nominal fee. High ammonia levels, PH imbalances may be responsible for that. Oxygen concentration and quality of the filters should be determined as well. If water quality is good and there are no major imbalances, Otto should beexamined to look for any sign of bacterial/fungal infection and eventually water should be treated with antifungal or antibacterial medications. Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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