Oscar sickness

Question
QUESTION: I have an Oscar that isn't eating and has a clear sack where he usually goes to the bathroom. He isn't as aggressive as usual and eats very little and is always sucking in water. What can I do he is about 7 yrs old?

ANSWER: Clean his tank water, Donna.  One of the first signs of Nitrite poisonong, or ammonia poisoning are the fish slowing, signs of skin changes and lack of eating.

I'd change out 50% today and then 25% every weekend for a month.  You may see immediate improvement, but it will probably take a few weeks.

Happy fish-keeping.


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: What is the sack that is haning down from where he goes potty? We also have 4 other fish in the tank that are just fine. I cleaned the tank about 2 wks ago so I don't know if that is it but I will do what you say. Thank you

ANSWER: Send me a photo.  I believe his intestine may have prolapsed.
Nitrite poisoning...typical sign of it.



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Is there anything that I can do for him or her?

Answer
Spotlessly clean his environment.  Increase filtration.  That's all you can do for him/her.  Get him out of that tank.  It's obviously got filtration issues. Get him into a system with a better filter, cleaner water and a larger environment.  This may save his life. :)

I am crossing fingers for his fast recovery and for your ease of worry.

Happy fish-keeping.