Axolotls usually stay near the bottom of the tank, so when you suddenly see yours floating at the surface—or drifting uncontrollably—it can be worrying. While some floating is harmless, other causes require quick action.

This guide explains why your axolotl is floating, the 7 most common causes, and the fast fixes to get them comfortable again.

Is Floating Normal for Axolotls?

Yes, sometimes.
Axolotls occasionally float because they swallow air during feeding or exploration. If your axolotl is floating but still active, eating, and behaving normally, it’s usually temporary.

However, if your axolotl is:

• Tilting sideways
• Stuck at the top
• Unable to return to the bottom
• Showing stress signs

…then floating could indicate a water issue, digestive problem, or illness.

7 Causes of Axolotl Floating (With Fast Fixes)

1. They Swallowed Too Much Air

Axolotls sometimes gulp air while:

• Eating floating pellets
• Snapping at surface bubbles
• Playing near the water line

This air becomes trapped in the gut, causing temporary floating.

Fast Fix

• Feed sinking pellets only.
• Reduce bubbles from air stones or filters.
• Gently tap near the bottom to encourage swimming down.

Usually resolves in 1–2 hours.

2. Constipation (Very Common)

A constipated axolotl may float because trapped waste & gas cause buoyancy issues.

Signs:

• Not pooping
• Swollen or enlarged belly
• Floating butt-up

Fast Fix

• Fridge treatment (recommended by many exotic vet professionals):
  1. Place the axolotl in a clean container with conditioned water.
  2. Keep it in the fridge at 5–8°C (41–46°F).
  3. Change 100% of the water daily.
  4. Keep it for 24–72 hours.

Cooling slows metabolism and helps them pass waste.

• Reduce high-fat foods like bloodworms.
• Feed earthworms as the primary diet.

3. Ammonia, Nitrite, or High Nitrate Levels

Poor water quality is the #1 cause of axolotl stress and often leads to floating, gasping, or frantic swimming.

Check your parameters:

• Ammonia: 0 ppm
• Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: < 20 ppm (over 40 ppm causes stress)
• pH: 6.5–8.0

Fast Fix

• Do an immediate 30–50% water change.
• Add Seachem Prime or similar detoxifier.
• Remove waste, leftover food, and debris.
• Clean filter but do NOT replace all media (protect beneficial bacteria).
• Consider adding live plants to absorb nitrate.

External resource: For full cycling guides, check the Aquarium Nitrogen Cycle Guide (Fishkeeping World) or any reputable aquarium science resource.

4. Water Temperature Too High

Axolotls are cold-water animals. Warm water causes stress, gas buildup, and floating.

Ideal Temperature

16–18°C (60–64°F)
NEVER above 22°C (72°F).

Fast Fix

• Use a clip-on tank fan to cool water.
• Float ice bottles (swap often).
• Move tank away from windows or heat sources.
• For long-term stability, use a water chiller.

5. Impaction (Serious)

If your axolotl swallowed gravel, rocks, or decorations that are too big, the digestive tract can become blocked.
This causes severe floating—often back legs up, head down.

Fast Fix

• Begin fridge treatment ASAP.
• Stop feeding.
• Monitor for poop containing gravel.
• If no improvement in 48–72 hours → see an exotic vet.

Prevent It

Use only:

• Bare bottom
• Fine sand
• Large stones bigger than your axolotl’s head

6. Stress or Shock

Stress can cause odd swimming behavior, floating, and sudden bursts of movement.

Common stress triggers:

• Tankmates nipping at gills
• Strong filter current
• Sudden water changes
• Bright lighting
• Handling
• Loud vibrations

Fast Fix

• Reduce water flow with a spray bar or baffle.
• Add hides and shaded areas.
• Avoid handling unless necessary.
• Use dim lighting only.

7. Infection or Internal Gas Build-Up (Rare but Serious)

Bacterial infections or internal issues can trap gas inside the body, causing persistent floating.
This is usually seen in:

• Thin, weak axolotls
• Animals refusing food
• Axolotls with red patches, fungus, or sores

Fast Fix

• Isolate immediately.
• Check water parameters.
• Begin fridge treatment.
• Seek exotic veterinary help if symptoms persist.

For vet directories, you can look up:
“Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians (ARAV) exotic vet finder.”

How Long Should an Axolotl Float?

• Up to 1–3 hours: Normal
• More than 12 hours: Possible issue
• More than 24 hours: Start treatment
• More than 48 hours: Seek veterinary attention

When to See a Vet

Seek help if floating includes:

• Curved spine
• Loss of appetite
• Fungus on gills or body
• Open sores
• Extreme swelling
• Lack of movement

Axolotls hide illness, so early treatment is crucial.

How to Prevent Floating Problems (Long-Term Care Tips)

✔ Maintain stable water conditions

Test every week.

✔ Keep tank temperature cool

Fans, chillers, shade.

✔ Feed a proper sinking diet

Earthworms → best staple.

✔ Avoid gravel or small pebbles

Prevents impaction.

✔ Use gentle water flow

Axolotls prefer calm water.

✔ Perform regular tank maintenance

Remove waste and leftovers daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my axolotl floating upside down?

Often a sign of gas buildup, constipation, or impaction. Treat immediately.

Why is my axolotl’s butt floating?

Usually constipation or air in the gut. A fridge treatment often resolves it.

Should I push my axolotl down?

No — this can cause stress or injury. Address the cause, not the symptom.

Can axolotls drown from floating?

No. They can breathe through:

• Gills
• Lungs
• Skin

However, floating can indicate a serious issue.

Final Thoughts

Floating isn’t always dangerous, but it’s a clear sign that something in your axolotl’s environment—or digestive system—is off.
By checking water quality, improving diet, and treating issues early, you can help your axolotl return to normal quickly and prevent future problems.

If floating persists over 48 hours, don’t wait—seek an exotic vet.