Signs of egg binding in hens
Egg binding means a hen can't pass an egg. It ranges from a temporary hold-up to a complete, life-threatening blockage.
Who gets it
The Merck Veterinary Manual says egg binding is common in young pullets "brought into production too early and in obese hens."
What to watch for
TelaVets' online chicken vet page describes a hen to worry about as "straining, lethargic, waddling, and hasn't laid in over 24 hours," and warns that egg binding "can become life-threatening within 24-48 hours" (TelaVets, a telehealth provider; no affiliation). Merck says a vet can generally identify the impaction "on abdominal palpation, ultrasonographic evaluation, or radiographic examination."
What the vet manual says to do
Merck: "Backyard chickens suspected of egg binding should be examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible." It describes an early-case technique (a warm towel wrap, lubricant and gentle massage) that "can occasionally induce egg passage." If the egg cannot be passed, "the chicken should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible, because egg binding can be life-threatening." Vets have additional options, including removing the egg contents through the vent and, in some cases, surgery.
Prevention
Merck's prevention advice for related laying problems: avoid obesity (limit scratch and table scraps), and don't push pullets into lay too early with extra light. Offer free-choice large-particle calcium such as oyster shell.
No vet nearby? See What to do if no vet near you treats chickens.
Written 2026-10-21 from the public sources linked above. Not reviewed by a veterinarian yet.