I think my betta's dying... :(

[kshirley47553]

hi! I've had my betta for about 3 1/2 years. He's always done great and he still has his color. But in the past week, he's started lying in the bottom of the bowl, and lying on a plant on the top. He doesn't eat. There's nothing on him, no discoloration. Just not eating and no energy. He only comes up to get air - very slowly and then kind of floats back down. Please help. I've heard they don't live but 3-5 years, so if he is dying, I want to try to make him more comfortable.

[dramaqueen]

Hello and welcome to FishForum. It may just be old age and if so there's nothing you can do but keep him comfortable.Keep his water clean and warm and offer him food if he'll eat it.

[AngelicScars]

I agree with drama.

[BettaSquirt]

:( I hope that maybe hes just really tired! I really hope he doesnt die either.
Good Luck and keep offering him food. Maybe if you give him more attention MIGHT help. Because earlier this year, Squirt was being very weird by just staying at the bottom of his tank, but he would get reallyy excited when i come and play the finger game with him.
Im not sure if that will work but its worth a try! :)

[kshirley47553]

Thanks guys. I'm going to get a heater today. He only looks at me and comes to lay on the side I'm on when I go over there. I have been spending more time with him lately though. Never thought I'd get attached to a fish, :), but they are interesting little creatures.

[dramaqueen]

Yes, they ARE interesting and they have wonderful personalities. :)

[BettaSquirt]

I know! I am like tooootaly ubsessed with them! :)

[crowntail lover]

I agree with Drama!!! There is nothing you can do for him if its old age, but keeping him comfortable!!
He sounds like a great guy!

[dramaqueen]

A heater will definitely make him more comfortable.

[kshirley47553]

Hey guys, just letting you know that Fred is eating now! I bought different food, and got a heater, some stress coat stuff. It took a few weeks and he still seems weak, but he is eating. He still sits on the plant at the top of the bowl, but he's a little more active. I think he's comfortable now. :)