Bird - Egg Binding

General information

While most female birds have no problems laying eggs, occasionally they may encounter difficulty. When detected early, the condition can usually be resolved easily. If a prolonged period of time has elapsed since attempts at egg laying began, the bird may become critically ill. Most owners are surprised that a female bird not exposed to a male will lay eggs.It is easily explained by reminding that hens eggs sold in supermarkets are also unfertilised!

What causes egg binding?

Egg binding occurs when the female bird is unable to expel the egg from her body. There are numerous factors why this may occur. Many birds are improperly fed by their owners and eat nothing but seeds. Seeds are deficient in many vitamins and minerals, especially calcium and vitamin D. These vitamins and minerals are necessary for proper contraction of the muscles of the oviducts; improper muscle contractions can result in failure to pass the egg. It is important to remember that calcium is laid down in the bones for a month before laying. It is this store that is used for egg production and expulsion. Therefore a lack of calcium represents problems over a long period - not the short-term. Egg deformities may also occur. Obesity (from an all-seed diet), lack of exercise, heredity (genetics), senility, and improper environment are other causes of egg binding. In some cases physical causes such as uterine torsion may be present.

How can I tell if my bird is egg bound?

Many owners do not even know if the pet is a female, and often do not suspect egg binding as a cause of their bird's illness. Predetermining the sex of your pet bird by a simple blood test can aid the vet in the future in considering egg binding as a possible cause of your pet's illness.

Birds with egg binding are usually depressed, fail to perch, often sit on the bottom of the cage, and may strain as if trying to lay an egg. Droppings may be very loose and voluminous just before this stage. If the egg is putting pressure on the nerves that control the legs, paralysis may result. Since the signs associated with egg binding are also seen in sick birds with other causes of illness, diagnostic testing is essential in formulating a proper diagnosis.

How does the vet diagnose egg binding?

During the physical examination the vet may palpate (feel) the egg inside of the bird. Usually radiographs (X-rays) are needed to diagnose egg binding. Early diagnosis is important; smaller birds can die within a few hours of becoming egg bound.

Medical therapy using fluids, calcium and warmth is often successful. If not then surgical therapies such as breaking the egg or even laparotomy (surgery) may be needed.

Can egg binding be prevented?

Maybe. Certainly birds on a poor diet should have the diet changed following instructions from your vet. Calcium, phosphorus, vitamin and mineral supplementation may be recommended. Obesity should also be corrected. Birds that are chronic egg layers might respond to hormonal drug therapy, although this can be associated with severe side effects. A hysterectomy can also be performed to prevent egg laying and egg binding.