If you’ve noticed your Betta fish floating sideways, struggling to swim properly, or sinking to the bottom of the tank, they might be suffering from swim bladder disease. This common issue can be scary for new fishkeepers, but the good news is: it’s usually treatable.
In this guide, we’ll explain what swim bladder disease is, the symptoms to look for, what causes it, and most importantly—how to cure swim bladder disease in Betta fish using safe and natural methods.
What Is Swim Bladder Disease in Betta Fish?
Swim bladder disease (also called swim bladder disorder) affects the swim bladder, a small gas-filled organ that helps your Betta stay balanced in the water.
When the swim bladder isn’t working right, your fish may:
- Float sideways
- Sink to the bottom
- Swim upside down
- Struggle to stay upright
- Have trouble reaching the surface
It’s not a disease on its own, but a symptom of an underlying problem.
Common Symptoms of Swim Bladder Disorder in Betta
Here are signs to help you recognize if your Betta might be affected:
- Floating at the top of the tank without control
- Sinking and staying at the bottom
- Swimming sideways or upside down
- Curved back or bloated belly
- Lack of appetite
- Difficulty swimming straight
Spotting these symptoms early gives you the best chance to treat your Betta quickly and effectively.
What Causes Swim Bladder Disease in Bettas?
Swim bladder problems can happen for many reasons. Knowing the cause helps you choose the right Betta swim bladder cure:
- Overfeeding or Constipation: Feeding your Betta too much—especially dry pellets—can cause bloating. This pushes against the swim bladder, making it hard to function.
- Poor Water Quality: Dirty or cold water can stress your Betta and affect its organs, including the swim bladder.
- Injury: Rough handling, strong filters, or bumping into hard objects can physically damage the swim bladder.
- Infections or Parasites: Bacterial infections or internal parasites can cause inflammation and pressure inside your Betta’s body.
- Genetic Defects: Some Bettas, especially fancy ones with large fins, are more prone to swim bladder issues due to how they were bred.
How to Treat Swim Bladder Disease in Betta Fish
Here’s a step-by-step guide to curing your Betta safely:
✅ Step 1: Stop Feeding for 24–48 Hours
If the cause is constipation or overfeeding, give your Betta a short fast. This allows its digestive system to clear out.
✅ Step 2: Try the Pea Trick (Natural Laxative)
After fasting, give your Betta a tiny piece of cooked, skinless green pea:
- Boil a pea for a minute
- Let it cool and remove the outer skin
- Cut a small piece (size of your Betta’s eye)
- Feed once, and watch for improvement
Peas act as a gentle laxative and help reduce bloating—often the cause of swim bladder problems.
✅ Step 3: Raise the Water Temperature Slightly
Keep the tank water at 78–80°F (25.5–27°C). A warm environment helps with digestion and healing.
Use a heater with a thermostat and check temperature daily.
✅ Step 4: Keep the Tank Clean
Perform a partial water change (30–50%), and make sure ammonia and nitrite levels are zero. Use a water conditioner to make tap water safe.
Clean, stable water reduces stress and supports recovery.
✅ Step 5: Lower the Water Level
Lowering the water to 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) makes it easier for your Betta to swim and reach the surface for air.
This is especially helpful if your Betta is sinking or struggling to float.
✅ Step 6: Use Epsom Salt (for Constipation or Swelling)
If constipation seems severe, you can treat your Betta with Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate—not table salt):
- Use 1 teaspoon of Epsom salt per gallon of conditioned water
- Place your Betta in a separate hospital tank or container
- Let them stay for 15–20 minutes
- Repeat once a day for 2–3 days if needed
Epsom salt helps reduce swelling and ease digestion.
✅ Step 7: Consider Medication (for Infections)
If you suspect bacterial infection or parasites (signs include clamped fins, white poop, or red sores), try a broad-spectrum antibacterial medication like:
Use according to the instructions and quarantine the fish if possible.
How Long Does It Take for Swim Bladder Disease to Heal?
Most Bettas recover within a few days to a week once the problem is treated properly. If the cause is overfeeding or constipation, results can show in just 24–48 hours. In case of infection, it might take longer and require medication.
Be patient and watch for signs of improvement.
How to Prevent Swim Bladder Disease in the Future
Prevention is always better than cure! Here’s how you can keep your Betta safe:
🐟 Feed Properly
- Give small amounts (2–3 pellets per feeding), once or twice a day
- Soak dry food in tank water before feeding
- Include variety: frozen or live foods like daphnia and bloodworms
💧 Maintain Water Quality
- Change 25–30% of tank water weekly
- Use a filter and monitor ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate
- Keep pH around 6.5–7.5
🌡 Keep a Stable Temperature
- Use a reliable heater
- Avoid sudden changes in temperature
💨 Avoid Strong Currents
- Bettas prefer calm water
- Use sponge filters or adjustable-flow filters to reduce stress
When to Worry or See a Vet
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your Betta may not improve. Seek help or expert advice if:
- No change after a week of treatment
- Visible wounds or red sores appear
- Your Betta refuses to eat for more than 5 days
- Swelling gets worse
Some advanced fish veterinarians or experienced aquarists may help diagnose rare causes or provide injections for severe infections.
Final Thoughts: You Can Help Your Betta Recover
Swim Bladder Disease (SBD) in Bettas is common—but also very treatable when caught early. Whether your Betta is floating sideways, sinking, or swimming weirdly, don’t panic. With the right steps—fasting, clean water, peas, and maybe Epsom salt—your Betta can get back to swimming happily in no time.
Always Remember: Your care and attention are the biggest cure. Observe your fish daily, feed wisely, and maintain a clean, stable tank. That’s the secret to keeping a happy, healthy Betta for years to come.