Cloudy Eyes in Fantail Goldfish: Infection, Injury, or Cataracts?

When a Goldfish's Eye Turns Foggy

A fantail with one cloudy, "foggy" eye in a 14-liter tank needs prompt attention. The small tank volume exacerbates water-quality issues.

Likely Causes

• Bacterial infection – most common; often from poor water quality or injury.
• Physical trauma – chasing, netting, or decor collision.
• Parasites – flukes or eye flukes (rare).
• Cataracts – age-related; unlikely in a 2-inch fish.

Treatment Plan

1. Upgrade tank – 14 liters is far too small for three goldfish. Minimum 100 liters for long-term health.
2. Test water – ammonia and nitrite must be 0 ppm.
3. Salt + MelaFix – 1 tsp salt per gallon + MelaFix daily for 7 days.
4. Antibiotics – if no improvement in 3 days, add Maracyn (erythromycin) per label.
5. Remove sharp decor – replace with smooth plants.

Early intervention usually clears bacterial cloudiness within a week.