I think my poor boy is dying

[susie]

Hey everyone, I haven't posted here in quite a while because my betta, "Flare" has been so healthy until yesterday. He's going on 2 1/2 years and I'm afraid he's just on his last leg... or fin.
He keeps jolting around really fast and when he stops he cant hold himself upright. I've had another betta in the past who died of old age and acted similarly but he didn't jolt around..
I don't know what I'm asking I guess I just want some advise or maybe even sympathy. It's so hard watching him and if there is anything I can do to make him more comfortable please let me know. What is the life expectancy? 3 years? I read about swim bladder disorder, I don't think that's it. He hasn't eaten in 2 days, I just don't know what to do.
Feeling helpless, I hope he's not suffering too much-
Thanks for reading.

[abm]

Hey susie,

I'm sorry about Flare . I just lost a betta friend yesterday, sounds sort of similar behavior-wise...Schuyler was fine til Saturday night, then he started spinning, seemed unable to keep his balance or swim straight. But he did eat well until then, and died very quickly.

I know, none of that is encouraging . So I guess I'm just offering sympathy...2.5 years is pretty good for a betta. 2 to 3 years is a pretty average lifespan.

I would just make sure his water is warm and cozy, and that he's not in a high-traffic area where he'll be disturbed constantly. After watching several of these little guys "breathe" their last, I'm convinced they're sort of like elephants, just want to fade away quietly.

I didn't ask, but since you've had him quite a while I'm sure you would have mentioned if there was any recent change in his world, water change, new tank, new food, new water additive, etc. that could be a cause of his behavior?

Best of luck. I'll be thinking of you and Flare.

~abm