My goldfish is floating to the top when stationary, is limp and weak but still swims. Help!?

Question

I've had my feeder goldfish for two and a half years. I have kept the same regiment the entire time. He is in a bowl by himself and has never shown any kind of sickness. I woke up today and he was floating limply, almost folded in half. He is weak but is still alive ad he is moving his fins and sometimes swims away... but every time he stops he floats to the top as if dead. I just changed the water, so it can't be that. Is there anyway that this could be swim bladder disease? Or is this something much worst? I really hope that I can save him, so please help. It IS the first day of these, though severe, symptoms.

Answer 1

I'm sorry to say, but it sounds like it's on its way out.  My sisters fish did this for 2 weeks before it passed away.  She had it for 4 years.  You could check with a reputable fish store and ask them if there is anything you can do. Good luck!

Answer 2

A goldfish should be in a minimum of a 20 gallon tank.  When they are kept in small bowls their internal organs will keep growing but their body can't so they eventually die of organ failure from overcrowding.  

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Answer 3

Feeder goldfish belong in ponds or VERY large tanks.  Bowls are inappropriate for ANY fish, but especially for goldfish.

You've stunted the goldfish by keeping it in a bowl.  The fish is now suffering the effects of organ failure and will die.  The inappropriate housing has caused irreversible damage.  In the future, NEVER house goldfish or any fish in a bowl.

Answer 4

Bowls poison your fish. Read this article:

http://www.petlibrary.com/goldfish/fishc...