salt baths

[STEVIE00]

just a question how long do u keep a sick fish in a salt bath for

many thanx for any replys

 

[Susielyd]

I have done the salt bath for approx 30 minutes. I think I must have read to do that length somewhere in these posts, but I can't really remember )
I am sure others will have an opinion, but that is a starting point for you
good luck

 

[STEVIE00]

thanx

 

[DivaSkyChick]

Try here http/www.everythingfishy.com/fishnote.html#salt

and http/www.skepticalaquarist.com/docs/health/salt.shtml

Let me know how it goes, I'm about to try the same thing.

 

[Inchworm]

Hi STEVIE00

What are you treating your fish for?

Salt baths are an old remedy and still a good one, but I recommend using them with, not instead of newer medicines for the particular ailment they are suffering from.

I use 1 teaspoon of salt to 2 cups of tank water. Be sure that the salt is completely dissolved before adding the fish. It might take stirring for a little while or pouring back and forth between two containers.

Add the fish and watch him closely. At the beginning he might not be able to tolerate more than a few minutes in the bath. You can leave him in for 20 minutes or so before returning him to his tank, which should have medicated water. If he faints and rolls over (which is quite apt to happen at the start of the treatments) do not be alarmed. Simply net him out and return him to his tank where he will quickly revive.

You can repeat this treatment up to 6 times a day. If you are treating for an advanced stage of bacterial infection, you will see the difference after a very few treatments. The salt eats away at the infected tissue much the way peroxide cleans a human wound. The medicated water will help him heal.

This is an excellent treatment, but it is harsh and it's scary to see the fish pass out. I use it only as a last resort when other methods fail.

 

[SMSBrunetteGirl]

Oh,do these work effectively?

 

[Inchworm]

Hi SMSBrunetteGirl

Yes, they are especially good for advanced stages of bacterial infection. A series of salt baths can halt the spread of the damage and clean up the wounds it caused so they can heal.

When you return the fish to it's tank, I recommend keeping the temperature no higher than 75 degrees F. if possible, and adding an airstone. This, and a good bottom cleaning and water change will serve to make the environment inhospitable for the bacteria that is attacking the fish.

I also add a little MelaFix or other antibacterial medication to the tank water so that it will have the benefit of both the old treatment and the new.

Of course, the cause of the problem must be determined and corrected or they will just be reinfected.