Koi Bacterial Infection
When it comes to Koi, bacterial infections are quite common. There are numerous reasons why these fish tend to become infected, though you can usually heal them if the infection is caught in time.
Usually, a Koi bacterial infection is caused when the premiere layer of the skin has been cut, which allows bacteria to seep inside of the skin. This type of cut can occur if there are sharp objects (such as rocks) in or around the water, if parasites have been allowed to eat through the skin, or if the water quality is very poor. Additionally, some fish may become stressed if they are moved, or touched, too often, which can then cause a lesion in the skin.
In order to treat this infection, there are a few things that can be done. If the sore is small enough, remove the infected Koi, bring it to a small basin of water, and then proceed to dry the wound with a towel, treat the wound with hydrogen peroxide (allow it to soak for thirty minutes), and then place the fish back into the water. If this treatment seems to work, repeat it at for at least three days. If you are dealing with a much larger hole, you will need to purchase some Debride Medicated Ointment in order to rub it into the sore.
Other successful treatments include a potassium permanganate mixed with water, or a combination of all three. Usually, it is a good idea to keep the fish isolated until the wound heals. This way, you can be sure that the one fish will not affect all the others. If you take a trip to your local veterinarian, this professional should be able to provide you with the right antibiotics for your fish. These antibiotics are effective most of the time, though you will have to apply them every day. If a Koi bacterial infection is treated properly, it should clear up in no time at all.
There is a lot of work that goes in to keeping these fish healthy. Not only are they dependent upon you for food and water, they are also dependent upon you to take care of their wounds. Be sure to keep your eyes on your fish, and treat any wound right away.
Fish that are treated properly can live up to thirty years, which is why a Koi bacterial infection should not be a big deal if it is cured quickly. Your fish will be with you for life, so be sure to take great care of them.