A fish that will not eat
Not eating.
Food ignored or spat out, sometimes for days, and in time a hollow belly.
- Do this first
- Test the water and check the temperature.
- Call a vet when
- A fish that has not eaten for over a week, or is losing weight in good water, needs a fish vet.
Likely causes
- New fish settling in (a few days is normal)
- Water quality or temperature problems
- Food the fish does not recognize or cannot fit in its mouth
- Illness or internal parasites
What to do today
- Test the water and check the temperature.
- Offer a different food: frozen or live foods tempt most fish.
- For new fish, wait a few days with the lights dimmed and feed small amounts.
When to call a vet
A fish that has not eaten for over a week, or is losing weight in good water, needs a fish vet. A vet who treats fish can examine it and prescribe treatment; your local fish store or aquarium society can often recommend one.
Stop it happening again
Quarantine new fish and feed a varied diet that suits the species. How to set up a quarantine tank.
Sources: Merck Veterinary Manual: Management of aquarium fish; Merck Veterinary Manual: Disorders and diseases of fish; UF/IFAS: Ammonia in Aquatic Systems.