Hey guys, my girlfriend just got her first oscar about 2 weeks ago. For the past week or so he hasnt pooped. We have tried feeding him peas but it is not making him go. His stomach looks very swollen and we are starting to get worried about it. Is there any thing else we can do?
Parameters:
Ammonia: 0
Nitrite: 0
Nitrate: 20

What have you been feeding your fish? Constipation is often related to a fish is dire. That is one good reason why a varied diet is recommended. Also, feeding fish the correct diet is also important. Your fish could possibly be constipated, difficult to say really. If this carries on for too much longer, you could try soaking the food in , castor oil, medicinal paraffin oil or glycerol. Most people know what Castor oil is, the paraffin oil has no nutritional value but can be used to relieve constipation. Glycerol is a laxative.

Unfortunately, constipation can be a very serious condition. I can't promise that any of these recommendations will work. Having said all of this, the fish may not accept this food if it has been soaked in these substances, but it's worth a try.

Good luck with him Bowhunter

I have in the past had some success feeding them Epsom salt crystals hidden in pea shells.

You could mix it in the water, but I have no idea what is a safe measure.

Medicinal salt treatments in the water are a bit tricky, and should really be done in hospital tanks for very short bursts at a time.

Well i just spoke with my gf and it appears that the peas have run its course. The swelling has gone down and he was finally able to poo.

I'm glad he's ok

Sinstinna wrote:

Thanks sins... me too

bowhunter wrote:


2 weeks is a normal period of adjustment. when newly acquired, usually, they do not eat much, hiding a lot, not pooing, and most of the time, have pale color. that is normal due to new tank syndrome. you have to keep the water in good condition (which you did), in order to cope with new tank syndrome and possible poor water condition in previous tank.

its nice to know it is doing well now.