Emergency Guides

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CRITICAL URGENCY

Egg Binding (Birds)

Female bird unable to pass an egg — a life-threatening emergency

Signs & Symptoms
  • Straining or tail-bobbing repeatedly
  • Sitting on cage floor, fluffed up
  • Weakness or inability to perch
  • Swollen or distended abdomen
  • Labored breathing
  • Paralysis of legs in severe cases
What To Do
  1. 1Keep bird warm — place in warm (85-90°F) environment immediately
  2. 2Increase humidity if possible (bathroom with hot shower running)
  3. 3Handle minimally to reduce stress
  4. 4Do NOT try to manually remove the egg
  5. 5Go to avian vet immediately
What NOT To Do
  • Don't try to squeeze or push the egg out
  • Don't leave bird in cold environment
  • Don't delay — egg binding can be fatal within hours
  • Don't give calcium supplements without vet guidance
Seek Veterinary Care When
  • Any suspected egg binding — go immediately
  • Bird has been straining for more than 30 minutes
  • Bird is on the cage floor and weak
  • Visible egg stuck in vent

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