Goldfish scales sticking out may be caused by fever
Goldfish scales sticking out caused by fever or water that’s too warm. Being cold blooded, goldfish have little to no tolerance for warm water. On warm days we may resist temptation to turn on the air condition. We can easily stand the warmer days of Spring and summer, however, our fish may suffer for the savings. Goldfish have no core body temperature, and cannot tolerate high temperatures. The comfort zone for water temperature is 64f to 74f
Leave the air condition off, but make sure their water stays cool by storing a pitcher of tank water in the fridge. Keep close watch on the thermometer. Fish living in water that is well within the comfort zone will be much healthier for it. Your fish may have fever caused by infection if its scales are raised, and the water temperature is cool
Reduce water temperatures if your fish is exhibiting symptoms