Sonoma Gal
In the Brooder
- May 18, 2025
- 18
- 97
- 49
Hi to everyone,
SOS. I wasn't expecting or prepared for egg bound chicken who is 21 weeks and laid first 6 eggs ( one a day small ) since 7/19. I found her laying down in the run with head tucked into her feathers at 2pm today while her flock members were running about. I immediately took her out of the run and away from the other flock members. In my helpers hands I was able to assess her vent which looked normal ( to me but hey I'm new to this, first time owning chickens ) and no egg visible. I introduced my gloved finger with olive oil 1.5 to 2 inches and felt forward & laterally could not feel an egg, my external assessment around her belly felt normal ( not distended ) too, I could identify her bone structure but no real lump/bump that would suggest egg bound. Just in case I missed something I soaked her in an epsom salt bath for 20 minutes. Gently dried and held her for another 2hours while my other half set up an infirmary. I set her into the safe infirmary which is also supplied with food and water. She is tired, lethargic and mostly slept in my arms. Checked in on her hourly ( still sleeping when I checked in ) noted she has pooped several times, crumbles were knocked over but water still accessible. She's been whining intermittently which just breaks my heart for her. Please advise. I really thought I'd find or feel an egg and I feel so bad I don't know how to help her. ( inexperience ). Thanks to all who reply in advance.
SOS. I wasn't expecting or prepared for egg bound chicken who is 21 weeks and laid first 6 eggs ( one a day small ) since 7/19. I found her laying down in the run with head tucked into her feathers at 2pm today while her flock members were running about. I immediately took her out of the run and away from the other flock members. In my helpers hands I was able to assess her vent which looked normal ( to me but hey I'm new to this, first time owning chickens ) and no egg visible. I introduced my gloved finger with olive oil 1.5 to 2 inches and felt forward & laterally could not feel an egg, my external assessment around her belly felt normal ( not distended ) too, I could identify her bone structure but no real lump/bump that would suggest egg bound. Just in case I missed something I soaked her in an epsom salt bath for 20 minutes. Gently dried and held her for another 2hours while my other half set up an infirmary. I set her into the safe infirmary which is also supplied with food and water. She is tired, lethargic and mostly slept in my arms. Checked in on her hourly ( still sleeping when I checked in ) noted she has pooped several times, crumbles were knocked over but water still accessible. She's been whining intermittently which just breaks my heart for her. Please advise. I really thought I'd find or feel an egg and I feel so bad I don't know how to help her. ( inexperience ). Thanks to all who reply in advance.
