Question: Should I?

[Plonk]

I have read the endless million threads on floating axolotls but none of them seem to answer my question. My axie has been floating since last night, I think he swollowed a large pebble. I know I should be smacked for having pebbles but they are the big ones and a breeder told me that these are great coverage for them * yeh right*. Ok, is it ok for me to still feed him when he is floating or should I wait? They are due for a water change and a feed.

 

[Kiowa]

Hello

I think you should put your axolotl in the fridge if he/she has swallowed a pebble.
Sorry I can only be brief because I'm quite busy.

See you and Good Luck

 

[Jacquie]

Hi Plonk,

Axolotls will float for a variety of reasons.

If the axolotl has swallowed a stone, he will not likely be inclined to eat while impacted. If you suspect he has impaction, fridging him will aid him in passing the stone.

Water quality issues are another contributor to floating. If you could advise on your tank parameters for Ammonia, Nitrite and Nitrate that would be most helpful.

Bare bottom or sand are the best substrates for axolotls. Stones smaller than two centimeters are hazardous to axolotls and should be removed - axolotls have very big mouths and will reguarly snuffle through substrate looking for food and swallow the rocks.

Larger stones are okay and look nice, but the only way to clean the muck which will accumulate underneath is to manually shift those stones around. Muck under the substrate wreaks havoc with water quality.

Cheers Jacq.