What is what to do when a chicken is egg bound?

Here's information on what to do when a chicken is egg bound:

Egg Binding: What to Do

Egg binding, or dystocia, is a serious condition where a hen is unable to pass an egg. It can be fatal if not addressed promptly. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Identification: Look for these signs:

   • Straining and squatting without producing an egg.
   • Distress, lethargy, and a puffed-up appearance.
   • Loss of appetite.
   • Walking with a wide stance.
   • Drooping wings.
   • A visible bulge near the vent.

2. Isolation and Assessment: Separate the hen from the flock to reduce stress and allow for close observation. Gently palpate her abdomen to feel for the egg.

3. Warm Soak: Prepare a warm (not hot) bath with Epsom salts. Soak the hen's rear end for 15-20 minutes. This can help relax the muscles and lubricate the vent.

4. Lubrication: After the soak, gently lubricate the vent area with mineral oil, KY jelly, or olive oil. Use a gloved finger to carefully massage the area around the vent.

5. Warm and Dark Environment: Provide a warm and dark environment to encourage relaxation. A quiet box or crate with soft bedding is ideal.

6. Calcium Supplementation: Egg binding can sometimes be related to calcium deficiency. Provide a calcium supplement like crushed oyster shells or a liquid calcium supplement to help with muscle contractions.

7. Gentle Massage: After lubrication, gently massage the abdomen towards the vent in a downward motion. Be extremely careful not to apply excessive pressure, as this could break the egg inside the hen, leading to peritonitis.

8. Veterinary Assistance: If the hen doesn't pass the egg after several hours of trying these methods, or if her condition worsens, seek veterinary assistance immediately. A veterinarian may be able to manually extract the egg or administer medications. Delaying treatment can be fatal.

9. Probiotics: after the egg passes, providing the hen with probiotics may help restore gut health

Important Considerations:

• Prevention: Ensure your hens have a balanced diet with adequate calcium and access to sunlight (or Vitamin D supplementation) to prevent future egg binding.
• Hygiene: Always practice good hygiene when handling your hen to prevent infection. Wear gloves and wash your hands thoroughly.
• Broken Egg: If you suspect the egg has broken inside the hen, immediate veterinary care is essential to prevent a serious infection.
• Experienced advice: Seek advice from an experienced chicken keeper or veterinarian.