Bloaty catfish?

[Mommachef]

My synodontis started breathing heavily after the water change today. She was also swimming towards the top more than usual and doing some other odd-for-her-things. I tested my parameters and everything is at zero. I added a little extra prime because my water has been extra chlorinated the past few weeks and I thought maybe she just wasn't handling the water change well. It's about 5 hours later and she's got herself wedged between a plant and the back of my tank next to the filter intake, and her belly is huge, more so than usual. I feed them peas 2x a week (they're her favorite table food) and she ate this morning fine. I can't figure out what is wrong with Her but I'm afraid she's going to die! Any suggestions of what I can do to save her???

 

[Mommachef]

I also lowered my water level and turned the filters up to get some more aeration for her.

 

[HUKIT]

If the fish is still eating that's a good sign, I would honestly fast them for 3-4 days to see the swelling comes down. A little Epsom salt also helps remove some pressure in the digestive track.

 

[Mommachef]

She died shortly after I posted this.

 

[HUKIT]

Well that sucks, with that kind of bloating it was certainly a digestive issue so I would careful on what and how much your feeding.

 

[fishman1121]

That usually happens if the fish had too much protien. Bu yeah i would just try fasting.