A betta refusing food is concerning but rarely emergency. Step 1: test water. Ammonia 0, nitrite 0, nitrate under 20. High readings cause appetite loss. Do a 30% water change if any are elevated. Step 2: temperature. Bettas need 78-82°F. A 73°F room-temp "betta bowl" suppresses metabolism + appetite. Add a 25W heater. Step 3: stress. Recent move, new tankmates, lights too bright, water flow too strong. Bettas prefer calm water + dim spots. Step 4: food preference. Many bettas spit out cheap pellets. Try Hikari Betta Bio-Gold, Fluval Bug Bites, frozen bloodworms (thawed), live brine shrimp (best for finicky bettas). Soak pellets 30 seconds before feeding. Step 5: bloating + constipation. If betta has been overfed, fast for 2-3 days, then offer 1 deshelled pea (de-skinned, mashed). Step 6: illness. Velvet (gold dust on body) suppresses appetite. Internal bacterial infection causes pinecone scales (dropsy). Step 7: age. Pet-store bettas are 6-12 months old at purchase; they live 3-5 years total. Older bettas eat less.
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