If you want an easy “health dashboard” for your guppies, watch their appetite and watch their waste. It’s not glamorous, but it’s useful. Changes in poop colour, texture, or frequency often show issues before fish look obviously sick. The key is not overreacting — one odd poop after a rich feed is normal. Patterns over days are what matter.
What normal poop looks like
- short brown/green strings that break apart
- regular output after feeding
- no straining or bloating
When it’s probably diet-related (and temporary)
- green poop: veggie foods or algae grazing
- darker poop: high-protein foods, especially frozen treats
- slightly longer strings: after heavier feeding days
Signs to take seriously
- stringy white poop for days: can indicate irritation, poor diet balance, or internal issues
- no poop + swollen belly: constipation risk
- poop plus refusal to eat: broader health stress
Safe first steps
- check water (ammonia/nitrite must be 0)
- reduce rich foods for 24 hours
- offer lighter options (veggie-based foods)
- observe appetite and activity
Poop alone isn’t a diagnosis, but it’s great data. When you combine it with behaviour and water tests, you can catch problems early and keep your guppies in top condition.
