05/01/2026
RIP Socks 💔 December 2024 - April 2026
Socks was the first koi veiltail I ever saw! Although fully grown when I purchased him, he was always a tiny guy. His failure to thrive came from his previously developed enophthalmos (sunken eye.) Enophthalmos can be caused by a number of things, such as a bacterial infection, malnutrition, and organ failure. 🫀
Since enophthalmos is a symptom caused by an ailment, I spent the next few months treating him for parasites using Seachem ParaGuard as a preventative measure during quarantine. Then, I utilized Seachem's Kanaplex antibiotic medication, along with 10 minute epsom salt baths twice a day, trying to get the swelling of his eyes down. With each day he became stronger, but the swelling never receded. Over time, I observed that his eyes were sunken in, rather than popping out. 👀
Over the last year, Socks became blind. He had a difficult time navigating his food and had to periodically be hand-fed when he struggled to find his food. Over the last couple of weeks he became lethargic. I attempted to dose him with one last round of Kanaplex, and it was too much for his body.
I wanted to make this post for a few reasons -
1. To remember everything Socks taught me about betta illness, aquatic medication, and patience. Socks' will to live, the love I felt for this little guy, and Seachem gave me a solid 16 months with him!
2. Betta fish are not the quality they used to be. Over the years, Betta were interbred to develop large fins and the striking color combinations we see today. This still continues with large-scale breeding farms that supply corporate pet chains. They are also kept in poor conditions, like unfiltered, cold cups, that spike ammonia levels and lead to illness. Most have some sort of ailment before or shortly after they arrive to the pet store.
3. Don't give up on them, even if it's hard! They are all we have. 🫶🏼
