swolen abdomen

okiemavis

If you haven't seen your betta eating, the likelihood is that it isn't eating, as they'll strike at anything floating in the water usually. Bettas are very picky eaters, you could try some live food and see if he is interested in that (such as brine shrimp, or blackworms).

The swollen stomach developing in a fish that has not been eating doesn't really sound like constipation (as you have to eat something for it to make you constipated). It sounds more like it may be a parasite. However, we'll definitely need your water parameters before jumping to *any* conclusions.

Your fish store will probably test your water for free, if you're in a rush to find out right away (that way you can order a test kit online, it will be much cheaper). Just make sure that they use a liquid test kit and they tell you the EXACT numbers, not just "it's fine", which most of them will tell you unless you press them.

carmelita

all the parameters are normal. how would I know if he has a parasite.

I haven't fed him anything but the pea in the past few days. I just don't know if he's eating. I would assume he eats when I'm not watching cuz I've had him five or six weeks and I'd think he would be dead if he hadn't eaten in a month. or at least really thin. and he's neither