Help! Is this normal?!

megphimu22

So I did a full water change today because it was about that time. Since I've done the water change he hasn't been swimming around as much and spends a lot of time at the bottom. He did come up and eat though when I put food in there. I checked the water and everything was normal. I've got a heater and it's the right temp. It's a 3 gallon tank. Help! Will he get back to his old self?

catfishtabbi

Probably will. I just got a pink betta a couple weeks ago and when i dropped him in the larger tank he stayed down for a day, i thought i would have to put him back in the "to go " cup . Quickly he realized his paradise and did well, exploring all day.

taylorg

you really should never do a full water change 50% max but even thats harsh try doing 25% a week, but he should bounce back

Jay Ack

if its a 3 gal tank, dont change no more then a gallon. because he might get a shock from the cold new water that you put in there. as long as he is not laying down on the water he should be back up in a day or 2.

iamntbatman

Normally you'll want to try to match the temperature of the new water to the tank water as best you can to avoid shock. I agree with what others have suggested - doing more frequent, smaller water changes is less stressful than doing large ones less frequently.

megphimu22

i make sure to get the water the same temperature- it's quite a process but I definitely don't want to shock the poor guy... I'm happy to report he's been doing great. I think he may have just been worn out!

dramaqueen

Glad to hear he's doing well. :)

Mikaila31

Large water changes are fine. Theres nothing wrong with doing 50% or larger water change. Thats what my tanks get every week, its never been a problem.