Being egg bound means your hen can't lay eggs.This isn't good for an egg laying chicken.There are a number of 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: Her appetite should be monitored.
There are a number of signs you can look for if your chicken is egg bound.There are other symptoms of the condition, including that she hasn't laid any eggs.You can pay attention to her appetite.Your hen could be egg bound if she hasn't eaten or shown interest in her feed for a day.An egg bound hen won't drink water.If she defecates, pay attention to her eating habits.Sometimes an egg bound hen has trouble urinating.
Step 2: Look at her behavior.
Chickens are uncomfortable with egg binding.She can act differently because of the physical pain.If your chicken seems apathetic or depressed, that is a sign that she is egg bound.There are other signs to look for.If she goes in and out of her nest frequently, take notice.An intense heat wave can 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 might be pale.She may walk differently.Similar to penguins, egg bound chickens waddle.Your chicken will look like she is laying an egg.Abdominal straining is a symptom of being egg bound.Pay attention to the feces of your hen.Egg bound hens will often have watery stools.
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.Prepare a tub with warm water and salts.You will need some kind of lubrication.You can 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 kept 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 that she is in a warm place.Have her sit in a tub of water for 30 minutes if she doesn't object.Keep her in a steamy room.A small bathroom with a hot shower is ideal.The temperature should be between 80 and 90 degrees.She will be able to pass the egg 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 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 a lubricant.
It is possible to help your chicken expel the trapped egg.Use your hand to apply vegetable oil to her bottom.You should wear gloves for this step.Give your chicken a break.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 the egg with a sharp object.This is not a good idea.The chicken's uterus could be damaged by the egg shell.
Step 8: Do you need to 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.Treatments that are not available to you will be offered by your vet.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: You can learn about the causes.
Common health concerns should be understood when you are keeping chickens.Common causes of egg binding should be familiar to you.It is possible that age is a factor.Senior chickens are more 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 to your health.She is at a higher risk of becoming egg bound if she isn't getting the right nutrition.Chickens need calcium and vitamin D.If she has low calcium levels, you can put a calcium block in her house.Before giving her any supplements, ask your vet.Adding sun lamps to her enclosure will help her get more sunlight.
Step 11: She needs to be active.
Chickens need to move around.Provide her with a lot of freedom.Her enclosure should be big enough for your yard.She will have to walk in order to get her food.Allow her to stay outside for a few hours each day.