Axolotl Health & Medications
Axolotls are incredibly sensitive to chemicals. Many common fish medications are highly toxic and fatal to amphibians. Always consult an exotic veterinarian.
Safe Treatments
These treatments are generally considered safe for axolotls when dosed correctly, but should only be used when necessary.
100% Pure Black Tea Baths
The safest and most effective treatment for minor fungal infections and skin irritation. The tannins in the tea soothe the slime coat and have mild antifungal properties. Ensure the tea is 100% black tea (like Lipton) with no added flavors or oils.
Methylene Blue (Half Dose)
Used for severe fungal infections. It must be used in a separate hospital tub, as it will instantly kill the beneficial bacteria in your main tank (crashing your cycle) and permanently stain silicone sealant blue. Use at half the recommended fish dosage.
Indian Almond Leaves (Catappa)
Excellent for general health and mild stress relief. They release tannins into the water, slightly lowering pH and providing natural antibacterial and antifungal benefits. Safe to leave in the main tank permanently.
Furan-2 / Kanaplex
Antibiotics used for severe bacterial infections (like columnaris or advanced red leg). Must be prescribed or recommended by a vet, as misuse leads to antibiotic resistance.
Highly Toxic (DO NOT USE)
Never use these chemicals in an axolotl tank. They will strip the slime coat, cause severe chemical burns, or lead to rapid organ failure.
Aloe Vera
Found in many popular fish water conditioners (like API Stress Coat). It is highly toxic to amphibians and suffocates their slime coat. Only use Seachem Prime or pure sodium thiosulfate dechlorinators.
Malachite Green & Victoria Green
Commonly found in "Ich" treatments and general fish fungus cures. These dyes are extremely toxic to scaleless fish and amphibians and are often fatal.
Copper-Based Medications
Used to treat parasites in fish (like Cupramine). Copper is a heavy metal that is highly lethal to all invertebrates and amphibians.
Melafix / Pimafix
These contain tea tree oil and bay oil. Essential oils coat the axolotl's gills, preventing oxygen exchange and causing chemical burns to their sensitive skin.
Emergency "Tubbing" Protocol
If your tank cycle crashes (ammonia spike), the temperature exceeds 70°F, or your axolotl is severely ill, you must immediately remove them from the main tank and place them in a "tub."
- Use a clean, food-grade plastic tub (like a large Tupperware) that has never been washed with soap.
- Fill it with cool, fresh, dechlorinated tap water (treated with Seachem Prime).
- Keep the tub in a cool, dark place (60-64°F).
- Crucial: Because the tub is uncycled, you must perform a 100% water change every 24 hours to prevent ammonia buildup.
When to Tub:
- • Ammonia > 0.25 ppm
- • Nitrite > 0.25 ppm
- • Temperature > 70°F
- • Severe fungus on gills
- • Floating uncontrollably