How do you treat constipation in goldfish?

Constipation in goldfish is often a result of lack of fiber and can be easily treated by amending their diet. Signs of constipation include bloating and stringy feces that hangs from the fish. Constipated fish may also appear lethargic and out of condition.

1. Treat the immediate problem

   Provide your fish with a laxative. The most common laxatives for dealing with fish constipation are tinned peas, plants and chitinous live foods. Tinned peas should be fed to goldfish whole. Refrain from feeding your fish any other flakes or pellets during this time. Epsom salt can be used as a mild muscle relaxant when dealing with more serious cases of constipation. Add 1 to 3 teaspoons per 5 gallons of water.

2. Ensure they have room to exercise

   Regular exercise can also help to prevent constipation. Ensure that your fish are housed in an area that provides them with ample room to swim around.

3. Amend their diet

   Pellets and flakes typically do not contain much fiber, so fish that are fed these do not have enough fiber to help their digestive system function properly and push out feces. This can be remedied by providing your fish with a improvised diet that contains a mixture of green, fresh, live or frozen foods.