Keeping your axolotl out of their tank can be necessary for many reasons. To some, it seems daunting - so as always, we are here to help!
Reasons your axolotl may need to be tubbed:
Tank is still cycling, or the cycle has crashed
(Similar to above) Unsafe water parameters or temperature
Initial quarantine
Illness or injury
Feeding difficulties
Observation
Hatchlings
Quarantining your axolotl is essential when water parameters become unsafe, the temperature fluctuates, or your pet is injured or ill. It provides a controlled environment where you can monitor your axolotl closely and administer medication or treatments if necessary. This guide will provide you with all the necessary instructions and materials to set up a quarantine tub for your axolotl.
What you'll need:
Plastic tub (1-2 gallons or so) mesh/screen top that breathes or enough room at top so your little lotl can't jump out
Smaller container they can temporarily fit in during water changes
Cool water (safe temps: 59 - 69 degrees Fahrenheit
Hide (see our tank setup guide if you need suggestion)
For injuries and illnesses we will discuss remedies and medications in another article
Preparing your tub water
All you need is cool water that is primed with conditioner that safely removes chlorine. Check out our tank cycling article regarding which water is safe to use, and what kinds of conditioners are safe for axolotls. There is one recommended above, but you can use any that are axolotl safe - remember, no aloe, and fish/aquarium safe does not = axolotl safe! You'll be changing the tub water daily (or twice daily if necessary) so bacteria/a stable cycle are not important while tubbing.
Handling & Acclimating
First, never catch your axolotl with a net as it can injure their gills or limbs. If you're unable to safely handle them with your (CLEAN) hands, use a smaller tupperware (used only for them) to catch them with water.
When going from bag to tub, always float the bag in the tub until the water temperatures are within 1-2 degrees of one another. Never dump water from a bag into their tub or tank as it contains high levels of ammonia.
When going from tank to tub, be sure not to shock your little lotl with a temperature change. Using some water from their tank in a smaller container first, then slowly adding a bit of tub water to that container and/or floating the smaller container in your tub until both containers are within 1-2 degrees of one another is recommended.
Daily (or Twice Daily) Water Changes
While tubbed, you'll need to be doing water changes daily as ammonia will build up with nothing to process it out. During water changes, use your smaller container filled with the existing tub water to store your axolotl temporarily. Make sure they're secure or someone has an eye on them somewhere safe so they can't jump out and injure themselves. They should be able to comfortably stretch out in their temporary container.
Remove any hides, thermometers, and air stones. Empty out the tub water and rinse with hot water only. Do not use soaps or cleaners. You can also rinse their hide in hot water if needed. Once done, completely dry the tub and anything you rinsed.. You can now refill with cool water and condition it with your primer. Put everything back into your primed water. Be sure to acclimate them back if temperature is more than 1-2 degrees different.
Regularly check water parameters and temperature to maintain safe conditions. When done feeding, remove any uneaten food sources. Spot clean using the turkey baster to prevent ammonia spikes caused by waste or food.
If you ever need help or have questions, always feel free to reach out to us here. We're here to help.
Please note that products here are recommended by us, tried and true - but are not sold by us. You are welcome to do some research into alternative options for products - just make sure they're axolotl safe! Aquarium/fish safe does NOT = axolotl safe. We do, however, receive a small commission if you use the links above to make your purchase. As an amazon affiliate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.
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