Greetings.
One of my fish has a problem with his eyes. One eye (as viewed from above) is clearly swollen (“pop eye”) while the other eye of the same fish appears partly cloudy — as if parts of the iris are more opaque (it actually looks like the non-swollen eye has a narrow, vertical pupil like a snake). I do not know what is going on. I have had this fish for at least two years, with no previous apparent diseases in the pond during that time. I have not added any new fish to the pond in that time, but as it is outdoors, all sorts of animals are visiting the pond as a watering hole. The fish continues to have a good appepite for food.
This is not an expensive fish, but I guess I do have some sentimental attachment to the little guy. I would like to give him a fighting chance if it is reasonable for me to do so. I currently do not have a quarantine system set-up, but it would not be that hard for me to set something up if I decide to try and treat the fish.
Just wondering what the options might be. I don’t have much experience in this scenario. I am curious what the odds are for survival if I intervene, or should I just let nature take its course?
Thanks.