Is it time to let her go?

[FlagChick]

I have a hen who I think is egg bound, which I noticed on Thursday. I brought her in the house, have done the warm baths, massage, and she's still dropping what looks like hard boiled egg yolk in small amounts. She's barely eating or drinking, needless to say, not pooping much either. I haven't seen a soft shelled egg that she's passed like some folks do, and I'm not sure that being in a strange environment is helpful. I'm going to put her out in the coop today and hope for improvement/normal behavior, but I'm wondering if I'm putting off the inevitable. Would it be more humane to do the deed than let her suffer? I'm not sure if what I'm doing is helpful or more stressful for her. Thoughts?

 

[chickenzoo]

It sounds like she may be an internal layer...... so very sorry. It would be best to put her down in that situation, as their is little that can be done for that condition. I'm sure others with more knowledge of it will chime in..... so sorry.

 

[FlagChick]

Thanks for your input, I feared that it's not good. I put her out in the coop with the other girls and my son's little Chirper is drinking away - at least she can feel like a chicken for one more day

 

[PunkinPeep]

I'm not sure i'd be convinced she's an internal layer from one incidence of being egg-bound. Is there more history?

I don't have the experience to lend you, but i know there is lots of advice on how to help her move that egg. I know that if it is broken inside her, and you don't clean it out, she will likely pretty quickly. However, if she is drinking and enjoying chicken life since you put her back outside, that gives me a little bit of hope.

I hope you won't make the final decision unless you're sure there's nothing more you can do. I also understand not wanting to just let her suffer to make you feel better. I've certainly been there.

Best wishes!