Koi with Extreme Bloating: Egg Binding or Dropsy?

A koi thought to be egg-laden became extremely bloated, deformed, with spine bowing and rapid mouth movement. The owner was told gestation takes 8-9 months. Robyn corrects this: egg-laden koi spawn within 1-5 days, reabsorb eggs, or develop egg-binding infections. Extreme bloating suggests dropsy (internal bacterial infection, kidney failure, or tuberculosis).

Possible Causes

• Dropsy from internal infection (most likely).
• Egg binding leading to secondary infection.
• Kidney malfunction causing fluid retention.
• Fish tuberculosis (slow, progressive).

Treatment Options

• Consult a koi vet for antibiotic injections (best chance).
• Quarantine with pond salt and antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin).
• Treat outside main pond to reduce stress.

Prognosis is guarded, but early intervention may help.