Huge Goldfish: Pregnant or Dropsy?

Goldfish so big it can't swim upright. Owner assumes pregnant. Asks if help needed.

Two Possibilities

1. Gravid Female

• Males chase/bump to induce spawning.
• Hand-stripping (gentle abdominal pressure) can assist if no males.
• Eggs released, may be fertilized.

2. Dropsy (Pinecone Disease)

• Scales raised like pinecone.
• Caused by organ failure (kidney/liver), bacterial infection.
• Usually fatal. Euthanasia often kindest.

Diagnosis

Look at scales from above. Flat = pregnant. Raised = dropsy. Compare to photos online.

If pregnant, let nature work or assist gently. If dropsy, prognosis poor.