
Distended Abdomen: The chicken’s abdomen will be significantly larger than usual.Tail Pumping: This refers to the hen squatting low to the ground and moving the tail up and down in an attempt to lay the egg.Nestbox Sitting Behavior: The chicken visits the nesting box frequently but cannot produce an egg.Penguin Walk: Typical sign of egg-binding is a penguin stand, in which the hen has a wide leg stance and upright positioned body due to the overall discomfort.Symptoms of an Egg Bound Chickenįrom “penguin walk” to excessive nesting box sitting behavior to appetite loss – there are several signs and symptoms of egg binding. In addition to being more common, egg binding is also more serious in smaller chicken breeds than bigger chickens. Yes, small chicken breeds such as Bantams are at higher-than-average risk of becoming egg-bound. Internal Parasites: Chickens with heavy worm loads in the intestines are more likely to become egg-bound.Īre Certain Breeds More Prone To Becoming Egg Bound?.Oviduct Infections: Infections affecting the hen’s reproductive tract cause muscle weakness and can result in egg binding.Large Or Misshapen Eggs: The risk of egg binding is higher in chickens that produce oversized or malformed eggs.Their bodies are not fully developed and not ready for egg production. Premature Laying: Young pullets that are artificially stimulated to lay eggs are prone to egg binding.Possible stress factors include environmental changes, hot weather, new flock members, etc. Stress: Stress affects the egg-laying process and may result in retention.Lack Of Nesting Area: If there is no suitable nesting area, chickens may retain the eggs until one is available, eventually resulting in egg binding. Find out here how many nesting boxes to provide.Obesity: Overweight chickens have weaker muscles that do not contract to the extent necessary for expelling eggs.Low-quality diets increase the risk of egg binding. Poor Diet: Metabolically speaking, egg-laying is a demanding process that requires many nutrients, including calcium and protein.Here is an overview of the most important underlying issues: Several possible causes and factors are contributing to egg binding in chickens. Delay veterinary attention, as you have less than 48 hours to remove the egg.Use vegetable oils for lubrication as they can quickly go rancid.Massage the abdomen, as you risk breaking the egg and causing infections.When providing first-aid to an egg-bound chicken, DO NOT: Lubricate the vent area: Lubricate the chicken’s vent area or cloaca using a lubricant gel.Moist heat: Place the chicken in an incubator covered with wet towels or bathe the chicken in lukewarm water for 5 to 10 minutes.Adding calcium and vitamin D supplements is also recommended.

Remember that its natural fluid intake is decreased, meaning you will probably have to use a syringe or dropper.

