What Is Betta Fish Dropsy & How To Treat It

Quick Summary: Dropsy in Betta Fish

• Cause: Bacterial infection, kidney failure, poor water quality
• Symptoms: Bloating, pinecone scales, lethargy, appetite loss
• Treatment: Isolate fish, Epsom salt bath, Kanaplex or Maracyn Two
• Outlook: Often fatal if not caught early
• Prevention: Clean tank, stable water, high-quality food

What is Dropsy in Betta Fish?

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Dropsy in betta fish is not a disease but a symptom of a deeper internal problem. It typically signals organ failure, a bacterial infection, or another systemic issue. The most recognizable sign of dropsy is raised scales that give the fish a pinecone-like appearance due to internal swelling and fluid retention.

Early Symptoms of Dropsy in Bettas

Catching dropsy early is critical. Here are the signs to watch for:

• Swollen belly that affects the whole body, not just the stomach area
• Pinecone-like scales when viewed from above
• Lethargy and lack of movement
• Loss of appetite, even when offered favorite foods
• Color fading or a pale appearance
• Bottom-sitting or floating sideways
• Gasping at the surface for air

Tip: Compare your betta to images of healthy fish. A side-by-side comparison often reveals changes more clearly.

What Causes Dropsy in Betta Fish?

Dropsy is most often caused by a gram-negative bacterial infection, but many contributing factors can trigger it:

• Kidney or liver failure that prevents fluid regulation
• Poor water quality, such as high ammonia or nitrite levels
• Sudden temperature changes or cold water
• Overfeeding and poor diet
• Stress from overcrowding or aggressive tank mates
• Old age, which makes bettas more susceptible to internal failures

How to Treat Dropsy in Betta Fish

Step-by-Step Treatment:

1. Move your betta to a hospital tank with clean, warm water (78–80°F).
2. Lower the water level to help the fish reach the surface easily.
3. Add an air stone to improve oxygenation.
4. Add Epsom salt (0.5 teaspoons per gallon). Make sure it’s fully dissolved.
5. Administer antibiotics:
   • Kanaplex (kanamycin-based) or
   • Maracyn Two (minocycline-based)
6. Follow the dosage instructions strictly. Don’t stop treatment early.
7. Keep your main tank separate. Do not return hospital water to it afterward.

Note: If your betta is no longer eating, choose medications that are absorbed through the skin and gills.

Is Dropsy in Bettas Curable?

Dropsy is often fatal in advanced cases. If caught early, treatment may work. Many fish do not survive, but some recover with aggressive early care.

In cases where your fish is severely bloated, not responding to treatment, and suffering, humane euthanasia may be the most compassionate choice.

How to Prevent Dropsy in Betta Fish

Prevention is key:

• Keep your tank clean and cycled
• Maintain a steady tropical temperature (78°F)
• Feed high-quality food in small portions
• Test water regularly for ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate
• Quarantine new tank mates or live foods before introducing them

Recommended Medications for Dropsy

Medication	Brand	Active Ingredient	Where to Buy
Kanaplex	Seachem	Kanamycin	Amazon link
Maracyn Two	Fritz Aquatics	Minocycline	Amazon link

These antibiotics are known to help treat internal bacterial infections responsible for dropsy. Use only as directed.

Click here if your betta has stopped eating altogether or if the betta is floating near the top as it might be swim bladder. We also have a full list of diseases here.