Miami Vets
Preventing and Recognizing Fish Illness
To the individual who has never owned a fish, maintaining an aquarium may seem fairly simple: create a pseudo-natural underwater environment, feed the fish once a day, and enjoy. You can watch them swim around in the tank, while making funny faces at them. Contrary to popular believe taking care of fish is quite challenging. Because these aquatic animals don’t speak for themselves, you must be extra attentive and cognizant of changes in both behavior and environment. Because if you don’t pay attention, your fish may become sick and die before you know it.
For obvious reasons, understanding what makes a fish sick and identifying the symptoms of a fish that is in trouble will determine the life expectancy of this relatively exotic animal. Here are some things to watch out for:
- pH Balance in the Water.
There are several varieties of fish that come from many different areas of the earth. The different environments mean conditions for sustainability. If the water environment is somehow different, it can put unnecessary stress onto the animal. There are other indicators in the water as well that require close attention; these include nitrite and carbon dioxide levels, water hardness, and temperature.
- Other Fish.
Believe it or not fish are capable of being very territorial in nature. Putting certain types of fish in the same tank can be a bad idea, especially if one of them is carnivorous. It is a good idea to research the fish you want to buy before making the actual purchase.
- Symptoms of Sickness.
Stress can sometimes take a toll on the well-being of the fish. Here are some clues to know if your pet isn’t fairing well: hovering in the corner, heavy breathing, and brushing against objects.
If you see any of these things happening,
consult a veterinarian at once.
For more information on proper fish care and illness symptoms, visit www.miamiveterinarianclinics.com .