Beta has dropsy but is he still safe?

Question

My beta has displayed pineconing and swelling, but only on one side of his body. Like if you looked at him from the top, his midsection looks more like a D than an O. I know that the swelling occurs due to kidney failure, but seeing as how he is only exhibiting these symptoms on one side of his body, does this mean that one of his kidneys is still working? Or am I just being overly naive and hopeful?

Answer 1

It could be entirely possible, but your beta will still be in mortal danger, even with one kidney. It is rare that a Beta will survive kidney failer, even for one side. The best thing to do it either put him out of his misery (break his neck) or try to make him as comfortable as possible and hope for the best.

I'm sorry about your fish, good luck.

Answer 2

If there was still any kidney function, there wouldn't be such swelling.  The danger is not in the kidney failure itself, but the swelling created by it.  As the fluid compresses other organs, they'll begin to fail too, and when this affects the liver, heart, and others, the fish doesn't stand much chance.  The best thing to do at this point would be to add 1/4 teaspoon per 10 gallons of epsom salt to the tank-- this will hopefully draw some fluid from the body.

Answer 3

I really don't know. If it looks pretty serious take him to a vet if not wait to see if it gets better.

Answer 4

aww... i'm sorry to hear about your fishie.. but you should take him to a vet(but it sounds so funny; taking a fish to the vet).  but all jokes aside, if you want to make sure that his other kidney is still working, take him to a vet.  i hope he gets better.  good luck.

Answer 5

keep a close eye on him and see if he acts weird or doesnt get better

Answer 6

try asking your local petstore...they will help u...