Goldfish Swimming Upside Down

[nesthead]

Hi all,
A couple days ago my goldfish was upside down. I thought he was dead until he started swimming right side up.

Then I noticed a little bit of red on his underbelly by his smaller fin. He was still upside down, but rocking himself back and forth like he was 'scratching' his fin against the water surface.

Today, the red is gone, and he's still upside down unless I go over to the tank. Then he swims around like normal.

He's the only fish in the tank, so there's no threat to anyone else. I thought maybe Swim Bladder problems, but now I'm not so sure.

I don't know if I should watch him for the next few days or if he needs meds.

 

[Lotus]

It sounds like swim bladder disease. Check out this page: References - Swim Bladder Disease in Goldfish

 

[MissFishy]

Definitely look into swim bladder disease. But also make sure this tank is fully cycled and an appropriate size and temperature for a goldfish. Take a reading of the water parameters or have your pet store do it for you.

 

[nesthead]

Thanks! I'll keep a watch on him and see if he eats his peas.