Does Your Fish Have a Curved Spine?
Does your fish have a curved spine?
If you have a pet fish that appears to have a curved spine, it could be a symptom of a serious disorder.
It is very common for goldfish and other pet fish to develop illnesses and diseases. A lot of times the symptoms go totally unnoticed because fish owners think they are normal. After reading this article you will have a better understand of what types of changes in a fish could be serious bone or muscle disorders caused by other problems.
Lumps, cysts, sores, swollen abdomen, curved spine, loss of coloration, whitened areas of flesh, eyes popping out, anorexia, restlessness, and difficulty swimming are not normal things that fish should be dealing with. Those are all symptoms of parasites, diet imbalances, infections, and bone or muscle disorders. If not caught early, these types of illnesses will kill an infected fish. Some of these things can also spread to all fish in an aquarium. This is why it's important to closely look at your fish and pay attention for any abnormal changes in behavior.
If a fish has a vitamin E or vitamin C deficiency they can develop bone and muscle disorders. If noticed before the disorders advanced the fish can be feed vitamins or an improved diet, which could reverse the damage.
A parasitic disease known as Neon Tetra Disease can also cause bone and muscle disorders after parasites attack a fish's skeleton and muscle tissue. This disease often leads to noticeable cysts and a curved spine which can leave a fish struggling to swim in a normal manner. This disease is awful and the damage cannot really be reversed. If this disease infects a fish it's important to remove them from all other fish. However, all fish should probably be treated to make sure any sign of the parasite is killed.
Some diseases and disorders can be hard to diagnose. If you notice anything strange you may have to consult a vet. Pet professionals at a pet store may also be able to help and point you in the direction of the right medication according to your fishes symptoms.
The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.