Do my hens experience ''labor'' as they are laying an egg??

mmtillman

Songster
11 Years
Jan 6, 2009
969
10
151
Southwest MO near the ARK line
I noticed my hens often appear to pant when they are sittin in the nexting box?? Does that mean they are laboring as they expel the egg? Today is not a hot day at all...in the mid 60* s...so heat would not be a factor. None of the others are panting either. So can I assume my girls are ''breathing and pushing" ??
I had one hen sit in the next for atleast an hour before she layed...while some of the others arent in there 15 min and are done.
Just wondering about this today as I watch my hens in the box.....?
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N-e-s-t I really can spell..LOL!
 
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I, personally, think it is kind of like labor. I, too, have seen my hens lay eggs. It looks like the "pushing" part of labor. I don't think that they have the rest of the experiences though.

If I am wrong, please someone correct me.
 
I've always wondered that. My Grandpa, a man of Bibicial wisdom, pulled down his Bible and read the verses from Genesis about a woman experiencing pain during childbirth. He went on to explain that it didn't say a thing about animals. So, I believe that animals don't experience the pain like a human female would. I believe they still feel the need to push so they know they need to lay an egg. I hope that makes since!
 
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I don't know about that. Every time my momma kitty had her kittens, she was obviously in pain during her labor.
 
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I don't know about that. Every time my momma kitty had her kittens, she was obviously in pain during her labor.

Same thing with my old dog(how passed away a while ago. She was in pain for sure. I think hens feel little pain...
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Someone posted on here that chicken's bones are very limber and their pelvis is wider and more flexible. Yes, my hens pant too. They must feel that intense urge to push, but I don't think it hurts them.
 

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