Re: swollen belly (part 2)

Question
Hi--
I asked a question yesterday regarding a year old betta with a swollen belly.  I wanted to update you about his condition.  Today I did the weekly water change and didn't notice any poop at all.  I took the bucket of water outside in the sunlight to make sure it wasn't just my eyesight.....no poop.  Maybe he's just really, really backed up.  He's still acting normal.  So I have him in a 2 gallon "hospital" tank and am starting him on the salt treatment.  I'm wondering if I should fast him this week or if I should try a new brand of food?  I'd still appreciate any suggestions.  Even if it's just constipation, something is causing it as I've never had a problem with this fish before now.  Again, thanks for your time.
                     --Jeremus  

Answer
Dear Jeremus,
These things can just happen sometimes. Usually when you least expect it. ;-)

Finding no poop in his change out water could certain indicate he is backed up pretty bad. The really good thing is he is still behaving normally. Constipated betta symptoms include a swollen belly, but all other behavior and appearance is normal. I would just insure his water quality is good and try the green pea feedings of course. Don't feed any of his regular foods for now. Fast him for about a day and then just a small bite of pea a few times a day perhaps for a few days until he is better.
Watch for any poo also which of course would indicate his constipation is subsiding.

Bettas can get constipated from many things like overfeeding at mealtimes. Not enough variety, and sometimes too much frozen foods! Preventing it is very easy, just offer small but frequent meals throughout the day and include as much variety in his diet as possible. But as said before, fast him for now and feed him some peas.

Best wishes to you and your betta!
Karen~