Silly boy flaring at and attacking thermometer...

[Sparrowhawk]

Since getting better, Weehawk has been getting very angry at his thermometer. He has started flaring at it whenever he comes across it, and has tried attacking it. I'm concerned for him because he's only just slightly recovered from bad treatment before being given to us, so I'm wondering firstly if it's really something to be concerned about, and if it is, if there's anything I can do, at least until he's fully recovered... Thanks!

[ChoclateBetta]

Is the thermometer reflective?

[Sparrowhawk]

It's just your average suction cup aquarium thermometer. I covered the red part of it with cotton, and he stopped. It would seem that the red is what sets him off.

I tried searching for this topic on the forum, and basically came out with the idea that he'll just have to get used to it eventually, and will figure out that the red stuff in the thermometer isn't a threat.

Is just leaving the cotton on there until he's 100%, and then leaving him to spar with the thermometer until common sense kicks in the best option?

[ChoclateBetta]

I dont really use one. I just put it in read temp then out.

[Kithy]

That's so silly :3 He thinks he's a bull.

Truthfully, I don't think it's gonna hurt him. He will get used to it and move on. My betta uses his thermometer as a hammock.

But if it bothers you a lot you can keep it on top of the tank and check the temp a few times a day.

[ChoclateBetta]

Bettas can hurt themselves from too much flaring.

[Kithy]

Most would get over it after a day or two, not all bettas are the same though.. Since he is a bit weaker yet I would remove it all together for now.

[Sparrowhawk]

Thanks everyone for your input, it's much appreciated. Here's hoping that he doesn't just go on a quest for something else to be annoyed with once it's completely gone... *facepalm*

[ChoclateBetta]

I doubt he will flare enough to rip his fins.

[Sparrowhawk]

I figure it's best to try and keep him calm until he's all better.

Oh, speaking of that... Since I'm making a post anyway can't hurt to ask another question... How will I know when he's all good? When he was given to us we think he was suffering from poor water conditions, generally speaking how long should it take him to recover? He's become extremely active in three days, has perked right up, but surely it would take longer for him to fully recover...?