My Betta jumped out! What should I do?
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If you forgot to cover your Betta’s home, there is a good chance that he may have jumped out. Do not dispose of your Betta, even if he seems dried up. Since Bettas are equipped with a labyrinth organ, they can survive even after being virtually dry. Carefully pick up your Betta. If he jumped out recently, his slime coat may stick to the surface – gently sprinkle some water on him until you can pick him up without force. If you skip this step, you may damage his scales and expose him to a myriad of diseases. There is no need to add water if the fish can be easily removed. Place him back in his tank and do not feed or disturb him in any way for 24 hours. It may take him a few hours to recover, so do not panic if he doesn’t move. After 24 hours add a protective antibiotic, such as BettaMax to his water. You may feed him at this time, although he may not accept food for days due to the stress of being without water. Remember – ALWAYS cover your Betta’s home!
August 17th, 2007 at 5:08 pm
Yeah, that happened to me the other day. As recommened, you should always cover the betta’s tank, and I do…but feeding time is another story. I opened the top and the next thing I know, my little buddy is on the carpet at my feet. He gets so excited at feeding time, and is quite a little athlete. I scooped him up and put him back in the water with no sign of injury, just a dazed look on his face. I think he learned his lesson.