Scalpel Wounds on a Rabbit Fish - HELP

[JayinToronto]

My new powder blue wasn't so happy with the large fat rabbit fish lurking around his sleeping spot last night. Gave him 2 good wacks with his scalpel. This is the first time I have seen full thickness wounds in any of my fish. I can see the muscle layer through the gashes. See pic. Is there anything I need to do other than wait?

 

[MarinaP]

If the wounds become infected, treat with Furan or Maracyn Plus in a hospital tank.

 

[JayinToronto]

Thanks Marina, would the signs of infection in a fish be the same as our skin? Is there anything in particular I should watch out for?

 

[MrTuskfish]

Thanks Marina, would the signs of infection in a fish be the same as our skin? Is there anything in particular I should watch out for?

Pretty much the same as us. Lots of swelling, redness; kind of one of those things that you'll know when you see it. I've had several of tang switchblade wounds on my fish (neat little weapon, huh?) and only remember one getting infected. Rabbitfish are tough, and I imagine get stabbed often on the reef, since they compete for the same food. I'd bet he recovers, but be ready anyhow. (Having a HT ready at all times is important for everyone, IMO)

 

[MarinaP]

Also watch for red streaks on body and fins, cloudy eyes.

I am about to introduce magnificient foxface to my DT, where powder blue has been living for the past 10 years...

Let us know how your fish does.

 

[JayinToronto]

Thank for the advise. I'll post some more pics along the way.