BETTA JUMPED OUT OF TANK!!!!

Question
My betta was found out of his tank, but I don't know how long. I carefully picked him up with a plastic spoon and put him right back in his tank. His body was wet but his fins were slightly dark pink on the end (he is a cellophane/flesh color betta). I don't know how long he was out. He was still wiggling when I spooned him back in his tank. He is breathing back in his tank but looks weak. His fins are clamped. He is slightly pale. I put some stress coat in the water (2.5 gal tank, Whisper Air filter, temp 80, 0 ammonia, water change was 2 days ago). What more can I do for him. He seems to be a little spacey, won't respond to glass tap or food. THANK YOU!!!!


Answer
Hi Chris,

I am sorry to hear about your betta's jumping. He may have seen a bug or other thing that caught his interest. To ensure it does no happen again, please get him a tight fitting lid for his tank - obviously make sure the lid has airholes but check they are not big enough for another jump. Bettas can and do jump long distances, and can do so through surprisingly small spaces.

It sounds as though you have done most things I would recommend - Stress Coat, etc. But there are a few more things you can do:

- Lower the water level to help him get up for breath. Four or so inches of water is much easier to swim through than nine.

-Turn off the filter. I know Whispers are a good, quiet filter but any movement is too much for a weak fish.

-I know you mean well and it is tempting, but do not tap the glass, even with a healthy fish. It is very, very stressful. They do not hear noises, but they sense the vibrations of your banging which to them, is very loud and they do not know you aren't trying to hurt them.

I hope your boy recovers soon!

Prue