The Puffer Forum

Our Mbu puffer had not been eating for several weeks when we had a veterinarian do a thorough examination. During the course of the examination, which was conducted outside of her 300 gal tank under sedation, she puffed in some air. When she returned to the tank, and came out of anesthesia, she was left with a large air pocket. The air pocket acts as a buoyancy chamber and she cannot regain her normal upright attitude in the water. She floats head up, tilting to her side, at the top of the tank. The results of the blood work that was performed indicate that she may have liver failure as well. We are trying to get her to expel the air pocket so at least she will be more comfortable.

Ok a little background, she is between six and seven years old and 27 inches long. A few years ago we were going to upgrade her aquarium size but were talked out of it by our vet and the Chicago Shed Aquarium. She is a big part of our family and is loved possibly more than any other fish I know. We just want her to be comfortable we realize that she's at the end of her life but we want the best for her.......Josie

If you can't expel air then its time to start thinking about clove oil. It might already be that time considering the above if she has liver failure.

I'm hesitant to give the dosage I used for my big cichlids. However dose it like your putting it to sleep then once its sedated overdose it. It's painless from what I've seen.

It sucks but its for the best in these circumstances.