friend's betta is ill

[imma24]

A young lady friend of mine (age 16) has had a betta for a few months. She told me last night that it has a spot on its lip and didn't look well.

I learned that she hasn't changed its water (she has one of those tiny tanks - less than 5gal) in 2-3mos and I told her that's the 1st thing she has to do. I don't think she tests her water either so I might try and do that tomorrow. I guess I should really look at it before advising her to get meds.

I'm thinking she could add salt to the water but she doesn't have an adjustable heater to increase the temp (I'm thinking along the lines of ich), so my 1st question is should she add salt anyway (and how much - a teaspoon?).

[Dave66]

Stress Coat, never salt with a Betta. Partial change would help though, but you should tell the young lady that Bettas live an average of two years, and that she has no idea how old it was when she bought it.

Would have to see the Betta, but doubt it's Ich, since nothing has been added possessing it.

Dave