*is scared*

[nekosuki]

I've had my betta for a while now. He's been doing good, and I've been feeding him, changing his water, making sure the water's warm, and everything, an he suddenly started floating sideways at the top of the water.

When I went to check on him to make sure that he wasn't... you know... dead... he went upright for five seconds and then floated sideways again. And just now, I've noticed a slight bulge near his head on either side. Is he sick? Is there a way to treat him?

[stephenmontero]

he could be having problems passing waste feed him some peas to try and get him to well poop that will reduce his buoyancy

[MattD]

There are a number of questions I need answered to help you.

What size tank is he in? Do you dechlorinate your water? Do you have a filter? Without one water changes need to be done frequently. You need to check the temp of the water you add with a thermometer, water has a high specific heat and will not feel 'warm' to our fingers where it can be far too warm for the fish. Peas will certainly pass constipation. Although it may take a bit of time for him to accept the peas readily.

[marinebiologist21]

If you DO try the green pea method, always chop the pea into small bite size-bits for your betta, and peel off the shell.

[SST]

Mine will only eat the tiny chunks of pea off the end of a flat tipped toothpick or the tine of a tiny fork. It won't eat any that fall to the bottom.