Caring for an axolotl is rewarding, but keeping them healthy can feel tricky if you’re new to it. These quirky aquatic pets have specific needs that can’t be ignored.
From maintaining the right tank conditions to providing a proper diet, small details matter. When you get the basics right, your axolotl will thrive and stay far away from illness.
Let’s break it all down so you can keep your axolotl happy and healthy.
Set Up the Perfect Tank Environment

Axolotls rely on their environment for almost everything. If their tank isn’t right, their health will suffer. Start by ensuring the setup matches their needs.
Keep the Water Cool and Clean
Axolotls thrive in cool water, typically between 60°F and 64°F. If it gets too warm, your axolotl could become stressed, leading to sickness. A simple aquarium fan or a chiller can help regulate the temperature. Use an aquarium thermometer to monitor it daily.
Axolotls can live up to 21 years in captivity, with a common lifespan of 10 to 15 years.
Clean water is also vital. Invest in a good filtration system that keeps the water free of waste while maintaining a gentle flow. Too much current can stress your axolotl, so look for a filter designed for low-flow setups.
Perform weekly water changes of 20–30% to maintain good water quality. Test the water regularly to ensure parameters like pH, ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates stay in check. Aim for a pH between 6.5 and 8, with zero ammonia and nitrites.
Choose the Right Substrate
The wrong substrate can harm your axolotl. Fine sand is the safest choice because they sometimes accidentally ingest it. Avoid gravel, as it can cause blockages if swallowed. Bare-bottom tanks are another option for easy cleaning, though they may lack the natural feel axolotls enjoy.
Decorate Smartly
Axolotls love hiding spots. Add caves, PVC pipes, or aquarium-safe decorations to give them places to relax. Ensure all decorations are smooth with no sharp edges that could damage their delicate skin or gills. Live plants like java moss or anubias can also improve water quality and create a natural look.
Feed Them the Right Diet
Your axolotl’s diet plays a huge role in preventing sickness. Poor nutrition can weaken their immune system, making them more susceptible to disease.
Stick to High-Quality Foods
Axolotls are carnivores, so their diet should consist of protein-rich foods. Earthworms are a top choice because they’re nutritious and easy to digest. You can also offer frozen or live bloodworms, blackworms, or brine shrimp. Pellets specifically designed for axolotls are a convenient option as well.
In their natural habitat, axolotls typically live for about 5 to 6 years due to environmental threats.
Avoid feeder fish unless you’re sure they’re parasite-free. Many store-bought feeder fish carry diseases that can infect your axolotl. If you use live food, quarantine it first to reduce risks.
Feed the Right Amount
Overfeeding or underfeeding can cause health issues. Adult axolotls typically eat two to three times a week, while juveniles need feeding daily. Offer enough food for them to eat in 2–3 minutes, and remove any leftovers to keep the water clean.
Monitor for Common Health Issues
Even with the best care, your axolotl might get sick. Knowing what to watch for can help you catch problems early.
Signs of Stress
Stress weakens an axolotl’s immune system, making them more likely to get sick. Look for signs like curled gills, a forward-curled tail tip, or excessive floating. If you notice these behaviors, check the water parameters, temperature, and tank setup. Small adjustments often resolve stress quickly.
Watch for Physical Changes
Healthy axolotls have smooth skin, fluffy gills, and a steady appetite. If you notice white patches, cloudy eyes, weight loss, or damaged gills, it’s time to investigate. These could indicate fungal infections, parasites, or other illnesses.
Axolotls reach sexual maturity at approximately 1 year of age, enabling them to breed in the following season.
Fungal infections often appear as white, cotton-like growths. Salt baths can treat mild cases, but more severe infections might need medication. Always consult a vet experienced with aquatic animals if you’re unsure.
Look Out for Digestive Problems
Floating and a swollen belly can signal digestive issues, often caused by swallowing gravel or eating too much. Offer smaller portions and ensure your substrate is safe. Constipation can also be a problem; feeding soft foods like bloodworms may help.
Handle Them Carefully
Axolotls have sensitive skin, and handling them can do more harm than good. Avoid touching your axolotl unless absolutely necessary. If you must, always wet your hands first to avoid damaging their protective slime coat.
Netting is a better option for moving your axolotl, but make sure the net is soft and designed for aquatic animals. When cleaning the tank or performing maintenance, use gentle movements to avoid scaring them.
Quarantine New Additions
Introducing new tankmates or decorations without proper quarantine is risky. New axolotls, live plants, or even fish can carry diseases or parasites. Quarantine all new additions in a separate tank for at least 30 days before introducing them to the main setup. This step ensures your existing axolotls stay safe.
If you’re adding tankmates, research compatible species. Many fish nip at axolotl gills, causing stress and injury. Stick to peaceful, non-aggressive tankmates like small shrimp or snails, but even these require careful monitoring.
Maintain Consistent Habits
Consistency is key when preventing sickness. Axolotls thrive on routine, and sudden changes can stress them out.
Stick to a Cleaning Schedule
Regular tank maintenance is crucial. Clean the substrate, remove uneaten food, and change the water weekly. Test water parameters frequently to catch problems early.
Avoid Overcrowding
Overcrowding leads to stress and poor water quality. A single axolotl needs at least a 20-gallon tank, with an additional 10 gallons for each extra axolotl. Keeping fewer axolotls in a larger tank reduces competition and improves their overall health.
Monitor Temperature Fluctuations
Sudden temperature changes can shock your axolotl’s system. Keep their tank away from heat sources or windows where sunlight could cause overheating. Use a heater only if your room temperature drops below their ideal range, and choose one with a built-in thermostat for safety.
Build a Healthy Routine
Preventing sickness isn’t just about reacting to problems—it’s about building habits that keep your axolotl healthy in the first place.
Observe Them Daily
Take a few minutes each day to watch your axolotl. Check for changes in their behavior, appearance, or appetite. Early detection of problems makes treatment much easier.
Rotate Their Diet
Feeding a variety of foods ensures your axolotl gets all the nutrients they need. Rotate between earthworms, bloodworms, and pellets to keep their diet balanced.
Use a Water Conditioner
Tap water often contains chlorine and chloramines, which are harmful to axolotls. Always use a water conditioner to neutralize these chemicals before adding water to the tank.
Trust Your Instincts
You don’t need to be an expert to keep your axolotl healthy. If something feels off, trust your instincts and investigate further. Simple actions like testing the water or adjusting the temperature can often solve problems before they get worse. When in doubt, consult a vet who specializes in aquatic animals.
Keeping Your Axolotl Happy and Healthy
Axolotls are fascinating creatures, but they rely on you to create the right environment and care routine. By maintaining a clean tank, feeding them a proper diet, and observing them regularly, you can prevent most illnesses and keep them thriving.
Remember, small efforts add up, and a happy axolotl is well worth it. Stick to these tips, and your axolotl will reward you with years of quirky companionship.
References
Health of Axolotls – Axolotl.org
A Guide to Keeping Axolotls – NT Labs
Caring for Your Axolotl – API Fish Care
Help! I Think My Axolotl is Sick – Caudata.org
Disclaimer
This content on Bagrica is for informational purposes only. Consult a professional for pet care or farming advice. Bagrica is not liable for any actions taken based on this information.
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