Little sisters fish needs help!

[caroline12]

Hi guys! I haven't talked to anyone on here in awhile because my fish has been doing awesome haha! You guys seriously helped me out since I'm a first time owner. But, my little sister needs help!

I am out of town, she called me frantically saying her fish was lopsided and swimming sideways or laying at the bottom of his tank. She skyped me and showed me and he looked pretty bad! Swimming sideways and laying on his side. She is using a 2 gal tank at the moment which I know is not recommended, but she's been saving her money for a five gal so it's on the way! Anyways, I attached a picture. She has everything she needs, filter, heater, live plants, etc. I told her to use one of my testing kits but she's so confused how to use it since she's only 9! I am coming back Monday so I'll update then. Also, the outside of her tank is all foggy. She uses clorox wipes to wipe down the outside plastic which scratches it and makes it look foggy!

I am thinking it is swim bladder? Any other ideas? I told her to make sure the temp is around 78-80 degrees F. and also had her do a water change and use the stress coat water conditioner! Have any other tips for her. I attached a picture of a selfie she sent me the other day She's too innocent to lose her first fish!!!

 

[Colin_T]

Do a 75% water change and gravel clean the substrate every day for 2 weeks.
Make sure any new water is free of chlorine/ chloramine before it's added to the tank.

Stop wiping the outside down with things. Only use water on a damp cloth/ paper towel to wipe the outside down.

 

[Aspen35]

Hmmmm. The fish doesn't look like it has anything wrong with it. At least from the picture, it's hard to tell if there is a problem. Definitely clean it as @Colin_T said. Good luck!

 

[Retired Viking]

I agree, fresh clean water will hopefully help, make sure you remember to add water conditioner. Good luck

 

[PheonixKingZ]

Agreed. Clean water should fix him right up. Make sure to keep up with this though. You don't want to fall behind - that could cost you her betta.