Why Is My Betta Fish Swimming Upside Down or Sideways

Betta fish are generally active swimmers, and they usually move gracefully in the tank. But sometimes you might notice your betta swimming upside down, sideways, or struggling to stay upright. This is often a sign of a condition related to the swim bladder. The swim bladder is an internal organ that helps fish maintain balance in the water.

If your betta has trouble with its swim bladder, you will see unusual swimming patterns, floating near the surface, or even sinking to the bottom. Let us look into the possible reasons and find out how to fix it.

What Causes a Betta Fish to Swim Upside Down or Sideways?

There are several reasons why a betta may lose balance. Some of the common causes include:

•Swim bladder disease – This is the most common reason for a betta swimming abnormally. It happens when the swim bladder is affected by constipation, infection, or injury.

•Overfeeding – Feeding too much food, especially dry pellets that expand in the stomach, can press against the swim bladder and cause buoyancy issues.

•Poor water conditions – Dirty water can stress the fish and lead to infections.

•Injuries – Physical damage from decorations, filter intakes, or rough handling can affect swimming ability.

•Underlying illness – Internal infections, parasites, or organ problems can also show up as swimming difficulty.

Signs of Swim Bladder Problems in Betta Fish

You can identify swim bladder issues through visible symptoms:

•Floating on one side near the surface

•Sinking to the bottom and struggling to rise

•Swimming upside down or tilting sideways

•Difficulty maintaining normal position after short movements

•Loss of appetite or staying inactive at the bottom of the tank

When you notice these symptoms, it is important to check the root cause immediately.

How to Cure Swim Bladder Disease

Treating swim bladder disease depends on what caused it. Here are some effective steps you can follow:

1. Fasting

Stop feeding your betta for one to two days. Overfeeding and constipation are the main reasons for swim bladder issues. Giving the digestive system a break can help relieve pressure on the swim bladder.

2. Feeding a Pea (for Constipation)

After fasting, you can give a small piece of boiled, skinned pea. This works as a natural laxative and helps clear the digestive tract. Do not make it a regular food, but it can help with constipation-related swim bladder problems.

3. Adjusting Feeding Habits

Feed your betta small amounts twice a day instead of a large meal once. Soak dry pellets in water before giving them. This prevents them from expanding inside the stomach and pressing against the swim bladder.

4. Improving Water Quality

Poor water conditions can cause infections. Perform partial water changes, maintain a clean filter, and keep the tank at a stable temperature around 78–80°F.

5. Using Aquarium Salt

Adding a small dose of aquarium salt can help with mild infections and reduce stress. Follow dosage instructions carefully to avoid harming the fish.

6. Medication

If the problem is due to bacterial or parasitic infection, you may need to use appropriate fish-safe medications available in pet stores. Always isolate the sick betta in a separate tank (hospital tank) when using strong treatments.

Preventing Future Swim Bladder Issues

Once your betta recovers, prevention is the key. Here are some simple practices:

•Maintain clean water with regular changes

•Avoid overfeeding and stick to a proper diet

•Keep the tank temperature stable

•Use gentle filters that do not stress the fish

•Provide safe tank decorations without sharp edges

When to Consider Serious Problems

Sometimes, a betta may continue to swim upside down or sideways even after all fixes. This may point to permanent organ damage or genetic issues. In such cases, the fish may adapt and still live for some time, but the condition might not fully heal.

Conclusion

A betta swimming upside down or sideways is usually a sign of swim bladder problems. The condition can often be corrected with simple steps like fasting, feeding peas, and improving water quality. If the issue is due to infection, proper treatment with aquarium salt or medication can help. By maintaining good care habits and learning how to cure swim bladder disease effectively, you can give your betta a healthy and stress-free life.