Change Water Before Treating for Illness?

[plumwd]

Is it appropriate to do a partial water change before treating sick fish? I've got a couple of fish that came to me with some kind of bacterial infection. One has mouth rot and another has a clouded eye.

I've never had to treat fish before so I'm not sure if I should change a little water prior to treating the water with an anti-bacterial.

Thanks!

 

[BillD]

In my opinion, it is important to start with the cleanest water possible before treatments. To that end, I would treat it in totally fresh water.

 

[Mamabon]

I agree, and keep the water clean for them. I change the water daily, putting in fresh meds but I used a 2 qt "hospital" tank I isolate and treat the fish in. Good luck.

 

[Berylla]

I perform a massive water change (50%+) and vacuum before any treatment.

 

[Delapool]

Yes, some meds will get soaked up by organics so a water change means the tank is cleaner and the meds will be more effective.