Getting Rid of Ick in a Goldfish

Goldfish are relatively hardy, but they do occasionally suffer from diseases. Ichthyophthirius multifiliis -- commonly referred to as "ick" -- is a contagious disease caused by a microscopic parasite, and may occur in even the cleanest conditions. Treatment for several days is necessary to get rid of ick. You should treat ick as soon as you see it on your goldfish. If left untreated, the parasites will eventually eat the goldfish alive.

  1. Identification of Ick

    • Ick is easily identified. White spots can be seen on the goldfish, like a sprinkling of salt. The ick parasites burrow into the skin and form cysts, which eventually fall off into the water and release more parasites. The fish become agitated and uncomfortable, and you may see them rubbing against objects. Goldfish afflicted with ick may turn over in the water a lot, showing their silver underside. Cloudy eye, rapid breathing, ragged fins and loss of appetite are other possible symptoms of ick.

    Raise the Water Temperature

    • Although ick is more likely to occur if the water temperature fluctuates widely, the first step after you have identified ick on your goldfish is to raise the water temperature of your pond or tank. Ick can only be treated in the free-swimming stage of its life cycle, after it has detached itself from the fish. Raising the temperature of your water will hasten its life cycle. Take care not to allow the temperature to go above 25 degrees Centigrade or 77 degrees Fahrenheit, and keep the water well aerated during this time.

    Malachite Green Treatment

    • Adding malachite green to the water is the most common treatment for ick. Use gloves and a mask when handling it and follow the manufacturer's directions. The water will turn blue or green initially, but this will clear up after a while. Observe your goldfish closely after application. Keep a chart and log the dates you apply the treatments if multiple treatments are required. Oxygen levels can fall when you add malachite green to the water, and it is important to ensure you have maximum aeration during treatment. If the goldfish show signs of extreme distress, change the water immediately.

    Treatment with Other Chemicals

    • Some strains of ick have become immune to malachite green. These cases require other types of treatment. Several different commercial chemical treatments are available for ick, some more effective than others are. It is a good idea to speak to a pet store representative to find out which type works best in your area. Add the chemicals to the water of your tank or pond, following the manufacturer's directions. The ick should disappear within seven to ten days.