Being egg bound means your hen can't lay eggs.This is not good for an egg laying chicken.There are several things you can do to help your chicken.It's important to learn to recognize the symptoms and think about ways to prevent egg binding.
Step 1: She should be monitored for her appetite.
There are a number of signs you can look for if your chicken is egg bound.There are other symptoms of the condition in addition to the fact that she hasn't laid any eggs.You can keep an eye on her appetite.Your hen could be egg bound if she hasn't eaten or shown interest in her food in a day.An egg bound hen will not drink water.If she defecates, pay attention to her eating habits.An egg bound hen will sometimes have trouble urinating.
Step 2: Look at her behavior.
Chickens are uncomfortable with egg binding.She can act differently due to the physical pain.If your chicken seems apathetic or depressed, that is a sign that she is egg bound.There are more than one behavioral sign to look for.If she goes in and out of her house frequently, take notice.An intense heat wave can sometimes cause hens to take a break from laying.When monitoring your hen, it is important to look for multiple behavioral and physical symptoms.
Step 3: There are physical signs that you should look for.
If your chicken is egg bound, she might look different.Her face and comb could be pale.She could walk differently.Similar to penguins, Egg bound chickens waddle.Your chicken will look like she is laying an egg.A hard abdomen is a symptom of being egg bound.Pay attention to the feces of your hen.Egg bound hens are more likely to have watery diarrhea.
Step 4: Pick out your supplies.
An egg bound chicken can be treated at home.There are a few things you need to cure her.The water and salts should be in the tub.You will need some kind of lubrication.You can also use vegetable oil.Within 48 hours of not being able to pass an egg, a chicken can die.Do it sooner rather than later if you are going to treat your chicken at home.
Step 5: She should be warm and comfortable.
If your chicken is not able to lay an egg, she will be very anxious.Make her feel at ease.Make sure she is in a warm place.If she doesn't object, have her sit in a tub of water for 30 minutes.Keep her in a steamy room.A small bathroom with a hot shower is ideal.The temperature should be in the 80s.She will be able to pass the egg more easily because of the heat.
Step 6: You can use a massage.
If you apply gentle pressure, your chicken will pass the egg.Rub her abdomen with only one hand.If the hen is anxious, stop immediately.It is important to handle your egg bound chicken with care.If you accidentally break the egg inside of her, use light pressure.Keep your chicken hydrated while you treat her.You can give her water.
Step 7: It's a good idea to apply lubricant.
It is possible to help your chicken expel the trapped egg.Use your hand to apply vegetable oil to her bottom.You will need latex gloves for this step.Give your chicken time to relax.Leave her alone for 30 minutes and then check on her.You may want to consider taking further action if the egg hasn't passed after massage.It is possible to break an egg with a sharp object.This is not recommended.The chicken's uterus could be damaged by the egg shell.
Step 8: You should consult your vet.
If you can't help your chicken pass her egg, you should seek medical help.Ask your vet if you can bring your chicken in for treatment.There are treatment options that are not available to you.The hen will pass the egg if she gets a calcium shot.The vet may recommend spaying your chicken if the problem is chronic or hereditary.
Step 9: Understand the causes.
Common health concerns are important when you are keeping chickens.Common causes of egg binding should be familiar to you.It's possible that age is a factor.Senior chickens are most likely to become egg bound.Between generations, egg binding can be passed down.Nothing can be done to prevent your hen from becoming egg bound.An abnormal egg can cause a problem.This happens when an egg is too large.
Step 10: Provide the right amount of vitamins and minerals.
Your hen's diet is important for your health.She is at a higher risk of becoming egg bound if she is not getting the right nutrition.Chickens need calcium andvitamin D.If she has low calcium levels, you can put a calcium block in her house.Before giving her supplements, ask your vet.Adding sun lamps to her enclosure will help her get more sun.
Step 11: She should be active.
Chickens have to move around in order to be healthy.Provide her with a lot of freedom.Her enclosure should be big enough to fit in your yard.She will have to walk to get to her food.Allow her to remain outside for a few hours each day.