Emergency Guides

Access step-by-step guides for common pet emergencies. Know exactly what to do when every second counts.

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MEDIUM URGENCY

Swim Bladder Disorder (Fish)

Fish unable to maintain buoyancy — floating, sinking, or swimming sideways

Signs & Symptoms
  • Fish floating at surface unable to dive
  • Fish sinking to bottom unable to rise
  • Swimming sideways or upside down
  • Distended abdomen
  • Curved spine
  • Loss of appetite
What To Do
  1. 1Fast the fish for 24-48 hours
  2. 2After fasting, feed a small piece of cooked, skinned pea
  3. 3Check water quality — test ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, pH
  4. 4Ensure water temperature is correct for species
  5. 5Reduce water level to make swimming easier
What NOT To Do
  • Don't overfeed — overfeeding is a common cause
  • Don't use dry pellets that expand in stomach
  • Don't ignore poor water quality
  • Don't add salt without knowing the cause
Seek Veterinary Care When
  • Condition doesn't improve after 48 hours of fasting
  • Fish has visible wounds or infection
  • Multiple fish affected
  • Fish is in obvious distress

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