The Puffer Forum

I understand ... I'm sorry I didn't chime in earlier but at the same time I'm not allowed to offer advice ... only options that others may or may not agree with.

There is no way I could have said "do this.... and it will fix your problems" I am just not qualified, but I wish I was

I know there is controversy over the Melafix /Pimafix solutions vs hard meds.

My personal experience (which is limited) is that they are similar to over the counter medications. They do the job with mild conditions.
If the condition worsens you need stronger medication (the prescription type for us).

When your doctor tells you to stay home he is QT'ing you. The same with the fish.. need a QT to add stronger meds.

don't know if that opinion is valid but moving forward that is how I'll work.

This is all very correct.

Was he ever dewormed when you got him?

I think, in my opinion, there's still a black area when it comes to puffer illnesses. We hope that we can rectify whatever is wrong with the few options we have, but really, to some extent, it's a bit of a guessing game. That's why I keep saying it would be nice if someone could put together a guide for what to do when your puffer becomes ill. Something like one of those flow charts where if your puffer has this symptom then continue to the next station, or if it's showing something different, then go to another station, if you know what I mean. I always hope and pray that my puffers don't become ill because my knowledge is very limited when it comes to sick puffers.

Pufferluv09 -- I'm really sorry for your loss, truly I am. I wanted so much for Pocky to pull through. I hope this won't put you off keeping puffers because they really are unique fish and can be such a joy to have. Please accept my sincere condolences.

A similar thing has happened with my GSP. Only had him 3 days but he was showing signs of IPs from day 1. Last night my husband commented that he thought he might be blind as he was bumping into the plants and decor. He sadly passed away during the night also. As I've been on edge about him I've tested my water the last 3 days, 1st day with inaccurate API sticks but yesterday and today with master kit 3 tests have all given a 0 nitrite result...so not sure if it was that caused the loss of Pocky or my Pod. I'm new to Puffers so can't add much more but thought it might help to know I have had very similar problem.

I agree with your idea PPG as I have been up to all hours searching the forum for possible causes of Pods symptoms....admittedly though I have learnt a lot by doing so. I'm not sure how it could be done but if it is possible it would help to send us newbies in the right direction with our searching.

I didn't treat him for IPs because he has always been nice and fat.

I also agree with you Pufferpuggirl, that would nice. And thank you for your condolences. I'm not done with puffs, it's just really disheartening to lose one. I have a sweet little Pea Puffer that encourages me a bit, and a Fahaka and SAP that I adore at my bf's house. But Pocky is very much missed.

Poddington, I am sorry for your loss as well.

sorry about Pocky honny. <3

http://www.fishyfarmacy.com/fish_diseases/fins.html
Nice spread sheet of different symptoms, and there causes.

http://badmanstropicalfish.com/fish_pal ... ation.html
List of diseases\infections\bacteria with causes, cures and symptoms

Using these resources, It seems like Pocky died from Hemorrhagic Septicemia. Using Melafix would only prevent it from spreading, not curing him.

Thanks Mike.

Thanks Mezzovex, although I still think something specifically for puffers would be greatly appreciated since puffers need more specialised care and you can't use the same medications for them.

That is true. Some diseases/meds are universal, but certainly not all.. so it would be something to look into before treating. It is a helpful website though. Better than others I've seen. I found this flowchart for puffs, but it only has a few diseases. http://puffernet.tripod.com/diag-flowchart.html