Concerned for my Betta

Question
Well Karen, I'm sad to say that he didn't make it :o( It was like he was waiting for me, when I got up this morning I went to check on him, he took a breath and then died. I can say that he had a good life while he was with me, so I feel good about that. I'm also happy to admit that my other is doing very, very well. I added just a touch of salt to his water as I changed it and he is really happy!

Again thanks for your help, I'm glad to know this is here if I ever have anymore questions!

V/r,
Valerie

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Thanks Karen, I'll do that :o)



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Hi!

I have a beuatiful betta who, as of the past couple of days, has become lethargic and is not eating. I don't see any of the sypmtoms of Ich, Velvet, no salty looking, nothing. The only thing that I have noted is some paleness around one side of his face (I'm not sure if this has always been there). I will admit that I let his water go a little longer than normal, I usually change it once a week. He is kept in a big glass vase (the kind that you normally see them in with a plant)and we have had no problems with him in there. As of right now, I have changed the water and I placed a lowlight lamp by his bowl. I've seen something about adding salt, I'm thinking of doing this before adding meds (since I don't see anything) and also adding a plant. Am I doing the right thing? I've had him and another for about 2yrs, and no problems thus far. Should I wait to add the plant until he feels better? I don't want to stress him anymore then he may already be.

Thanks for your help!
Valerie
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Dear Valerie,
I would start doing daily 30% water changes. Always be sure his replacement water is equal in temperature to that of your aquarium and insure it is properly dechlorinated everytime. A very important thing to consider is the temperature of his water. Bettas can become very sluggish and listless if their water is too cold, low 70's aren't very appreciated by bettas. It's very important to try to keep their home at 78-80F without harmful night temperature drops. This is really best accomplished in a actual aquarium with a small heater running. But since you can't do that right away (although it's best) keeping the light over his vase all the time should keep him reasonably warm. You are right about not adding any medications if you are unsure as to what may be wrong. Adding a small silk plant (sometimes plastic can tear their fins) or live plant like a java fern would be welcomed by your betta. Bettas love plants and use them for resting on and for shelter. Salt wouldn't be entirely neccesary and I feel he may be listless due to some enviromental problem rather than an actual illness.

Daily water changes and making sure his temperature is warm enough is the best treatment for him now. Remember that your betta is quite old-- 2 years is an average lifespan for many bettas. So he may also be just slowing down. Don't give up hope though, I know some bettas that have lived 3 years and past!

Best wishes to you and your lovely betta,
Karen~
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~You're very welcome Valerie!~
Feel free to let me how he is doing if you want!

Best wishes as always,
Karen~

Answer
Valerie I'm so sorry to hear that. I think I would suspect old age to be the most likely reason you lost your poor betta. You did give him a very good life and you should feel good about that. At least your other betta is doing well and I hope he lives many more years!

Best wishes and feel free to write if you ever have anymore concerns,
Karen~