Is my betta sick?

[HannahBeth]

I'm a college student and I can't tell if my betta fish is sick or not. I really want to take care of this fish, so if you could give me some advice about if my fish is/is not sick and what to do about it, I would really appreciate it!

I have several concerns, but my biggest concern is the coloring of my fish's gills. They are very dark around the edges, and seem like they might be swollen (see attached pictures). I also can't tell if his fins look tattered.






I've read up a lot online about fin rot, but I don't know if giving my fish medication if he's not sick would hurt him. Any thoughts?

Also, my fish eats, but he gets really aggravated and swims around his tank in circles very quickly and flares his gills after eating a few pellets. Is this normal?

Anything you can tell me would be great!

[Hassled]

Can't tell because the picture is a bit blurry, but how long have you had him? Because the gill color could be his beard color.

[HannahBeth]

I have had him less than a month, and I'm pretty sure it's been this color the whole time.

Sorry about the blurry pictures. My phone camera is not the greatest and my betta was feeling squirmy.

Thank you!

[LeoTheLakerBetta]

He seems to be healthy, considering that bubble nest in the background. Usually bettas have darker colored gills. If you keep up with water changes his fins should heal up fine. :)

[MaggieLynn]

As long has the gill area isnt a bright red, an indicator of ammonia burns you should be fine. Also next time you think something is up there is a sticky at the top of emergency page, just fill that out and usually people can help you instantly. Also pretty boy you have :)