Fantail Goldfish Swim Bladder Disorder

Swim bladder problems frequently strike fantail goldfish, causing swimming problems and possibly death. Treatments exist, however, and taking the proper steps to maintain a healthy fish tank or bowl is crucial to your fantail's health.

  1. Symptoms

    • Watch your fish. Is it swimming abnormally or having problems staying upright? Both are typical signs of swim bladder disease. As it gets worse, your fantail goldfish could swim upside down and appear swollen.

    Causes

    • Everything from constipation to cancer causes swim bladder disorders in fantail goldfish. The disorder commonly results from overfeeding, infections caused by unhealthy water conditions, disease or parasites.

    Treatment

    • Remedy fantail constipation by feeding brine shrimp or mashed, steamed peas. Fix intestinal blockage by adding, over 12 hours, 1 tablespoon of marine salt for each 5 gallons of tank water. Then stop feeding the fantail for four days. It will be fine. Resume feeding brine shrimp and try to routinely add brine shrimp to the fantail diet. Commercially available medicines treat infections and parasites.

    General Health

    • A properly maintained fish tank provides a healthy home for your fantail goldfish and helps prevent illness. Changing 20 percent of the water monthly, maintaining a proper feeding regimen and not overcrowding the tank are all basic steps for a healthy aquarium.

    Warning

    • Fish medicines often contain harmful materials. Be careful when using them and follow all instructions. Store them out of the reach of children.