Signs
Swollen belly, refusal to eat, stringy feces, lethargy, darkening color.
Progression from mild swelling to severe distention within 48-72 hours.
Cause
Bacterial infection of the gut, often triggered by poor diet (too much protein), stress, or poor water.
Not the same as constipation — no amount of fasting or peas helps.
Treatment
Metronidazole via medicated food or water dosing. Food-soaking is most effective — mix 1/4 tsp metronidazole in water, soak pellets 5 minutes, feed.
Daily water changes. No feeding except medicated food for 5-7 days.
Prevention
Varied diet. No rotten food. Maintain pristine water. Avoid overfeeding protein-heavy foods (beef heart, raw shrimp daily).