Treating Swim Bladder with Tetracycline

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13BRAVO

AC Members
Sep 18, 2004
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I was at my lfs today (the one I am not crazy about) to pick up some gravel. While I was there I asked them if they had any recommendations for treating a fish with swim bladder, medicated or otherwise.

They recommended giving them tetracycline capsules.

My questions for the pro's here:

1) Is this a good idea? Like for a last ditch effort? Has anyone ever heard of using that to treat it?
2) Can anyone who has succesfully treated one or more of their fish for swim bladder please let me know what you did that worked? (non-medicated method preferred but I would like to hear everything). Or if you know someone who did it and know how, please let me know, thanks!

13BRAVO
 
Swim bladder problems are complex and they can even be caused by some treatments (or over treatments). It can be something difficult to treat such as an internal infection or just a digestion problem that a few days with out food will cure. Still, if the problem is internal, adding stuff to the water isn't likely to help. You need medicated foods for that. A lot of bacteria are also resistant to Tetracycline. With all the meds that have been given, any more would just be more stressful then helpful, I think. If you think you are at the last ditch effort, I think the best method is to just give the fish lots of room and lots of clean water. You may just have to be resigned to fate and start thinking of a humane end. It's a lesson all of us have learned. Good luck.
 
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If the fish is still eating, you might try introducing high fiber foods: zucchini, spinach, romaine lettuce, and peas are all good choices. Keep dried foods that contain high amounts of protein to a minimum. Treating with medications should only really be necessary if you suspect it is caused by a bacterial infection or if it is a very advanced case that does not respond to dietary changes.
 
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