Goldfish Swollen for Months: Dropsy or Kidney Failure

One Goldfish Huge for Months: Dropsy vs. Kidney Failure

Scales pineconing = dropsy (acute bacterial). Slow swelling without pineconing = kidney failure (chronic). Neither is easily cured.

Supportive Care

• Pond salt 0.05% (with plants) — reduces osmotic pressure.
• Antibiotics (injectable best) — limited success.
• Pristine water — low ammonia, high O2.

Prognosis

Fish live weeks to months. Not contagious. Bacteria are ubiquitous; only weakened fish succumb.

Photos for Reference

Dropsy Photos | Kidney Failure Photos