Betta - bloat

Question
My betta has what looks like a bloated stomach the past few days.  What can I do for him? How serious is this? Thanks in advance for your help.

Answer
Hey Tracey

Unless your Betta isn't a girl then it must have a internal parasite.

These diseases are caused by a variety of bacteria species, e.g. Pseudomonas flourescens, Aeromonas hydrophila and Virio marinium. Internal bacterial infections spread throughout the fish's tissue and internal organs. Symptoms vary, depending on the acuteness of the disease. In some cases the fish will just darken in colour, become listless, stop feeding and die. In others severe symptoms exist, ulcers, abdominal and eye swelling, destruction of the central nervous system, and then the fish dies. It is essential to catch these diseases as early as possible or treat as a precaution as soon as they are suspected.

Treatment for Internal Bacteria

Previously, the only effective treatment against internal bacteria was veterinary prescribed antibiotics. New medicines (such as Interpet's Anti Internal Bacteria No.9) are now available over the counter. These easy treatment methods improve the chances of successful treatment of internal bacterial infections.

Hope this helps and Good Luck     Jack