Health guide
Dystocia
Dystocia or egg binding means an egg is not moving normally through the reproductive tract. Pressure on organs and air sacs can make it a rapidly fatal emergency.
How to recognise it
- Repeated straining, wide stance, horizontal posture, tail pumping or staying on the floor.
- Swollen abdomen, reduced droppings, weakness, leg problems or laboured breathing.
- A soft-shelled egg may not be obvious on a standard X-ray.
Usual treatment approach
- This is urgent: provide warmth and quiet transport while arranging an avian veterinarian; do not squeeze the abdomen or insert oil.
- Veterinary treatment may include stabilisation, fluids, calcium, imaging and medication to support oviduct contraction.
- Some eggs require sedation and extraction, collapse by aspiration or surgery; diet and laying triggers should be reviewed afterward.
Sources and further reading