Egg Binding

[shahwin]

Egg binding is a serious and often fatal condition that affects female
birds of breeding age.

Because it's so important for egg bound hens to receive prompt medical
treatment, owners should know what signs and symptoms to watch for in
their pets. Read on for the most common signs of egg binding in birds,
and always keep a close eye on mature female birds. Recognizing the
signs of egg binding early on can be the key to your pet's survival.

Rapid or Labored Breathing: Many egg bound hens will look like they
are having a hard time breathing. If you notice even slightly labored
breathing in your bird, rush to your avian vet for prompt diagnosis
and treatment.


Swelling: An egg bound hen may appear to have a swollen stomach or may
show swelling around her bottom from straining to pass an egg. Birds
with swelling on any part of their bodies should be seen by a medical
professional as soon as possible.


Constipation: If you suspect that a hen may be egg bound, watch her
droppings. If they look abnormal, or if she fails to produce any at
all, get her to the avian vet straight away.


Fluffed Up Feathers: One of the most common symptoms of illness in
birds, fluffed up feathers can also be a sign that a bird is egg
bound. If you observe your bird sitting with her feathers fluffed up,
assess her for any other symptoms or abnormalities and contact your
veterinarian.


Straining: Egg bound hens will often visibly strain to try and pass
their eggs. Birds that strain but show no progress in moving their
eggs should be seen by a vet.


Sitting in the Cage Floor: Most of the time, birds that are egg bound
will take to sitting in the cage floor. If you see this happen to your
bird, get her to a vet immediately. Eggs that are stuck inside of a
hen can put immense pressure on the bird's spine, sometimes causing
paralysis and the inability to perch.

If you have observed these or any other abnormalities in your bird,
please contact a qualified avian veterinarian. An avian vet will be
able to properly diagnose your pet's problem, and get her on the road
to a fast recovery.