Betta is fading...?I think

Question
I got this red betta from a friend that only had him for like a week. I have had a betta before and when he did this he died a few days later. That scares me. I know it could be a different reason but still... I love my Bubbles. Ok the question part. He's red well was bright red. Now around his mouth and head he is fading. Like turning white almost. He's in a vase with those blue like see through smooth rocks in it without a plant. If this is a problem please let me know. Sorry this was so long but I wanted to make sure that I covered all the basics. Thanks for anything that will help me sleep and stop worring about Bubbles.
Thanks again,
Helen Luna

Answer
Hello Helen-

Loss of color in bettas is usually a sign that their water is way too cold. They should be kept at 80 F if possible, and never any colder than 70 F. Because your betta is in a vase without a heater, his water is probably colder than room temperature, and therefore, way too cold. To remedy this, either a heater or a desk lamp can be used to get the temperature up. I'd recommend a heater, but be sure the size matches the # of gallons in the vase or you'll cook the little guy.

If, however, his water is warm enough, then your betta may be coming down with some sort of bacterial infection. If this is the case, you'll want to treat the tank with a dose of aquarium salt and a dose of Melafix (both can be found at WalMart or PETsMART.)

Hope this is useful!
-Amber Worman