Just like any pet or animal you have to be aware of chicken health issues. Two common but potentially serious conditions are ascites and egg binding. While they may present some overlapping symptoms, these conditions have distinct causes and treatments.

A beginner’s guide to backyard chickens can be helpful, but those typically don’t have enough detail to help you diagnose the difference between Ascites or egg binding.  Being able to identify and address them promptly can make a significant difference in your chicken’s health and welfare.

• • • Ascites, or “water belly,” involves fluid buildup in the abdomen, often stemming from heart issues, poor ventilation, or rapid growth.
    • Egg binding occurs when a hen cannot lay an egg, frequently due to nutritional deficiencies, oversized eggs, stress, or obesity.
      
      

What is Ascites?

Ascites, also known as “water belly,” occurs when fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity of a chicken. This condition is often a result of pulmonary hypertension, which can lead to congestive heart failure. Ascites is commonly seen in broiler chickens, particularly those bred for rapid growth, but it can also occur in other breeds.

Causes of Ascites

• • Heart issues: Pulmonary hypertension is the primary cause, often due to genetic predisposition.

• • Poor ventilation: High ammonia levels or insufficient airflow in coops can stress the respiratory system.

• • Rapid growth rates: Fast-growing chickens, such as commercial broilers, may develop heart and lung problems.

• • Infections: Diseases like avian influenza or Newcastle disease can cause secondary ascites.

• • Altitude: Chickens kept at high altitudes may have difficulty adapting to lower oxygen levels.

Symptoms of Ascites

• • Swollen abdomen: The most obvious sign is a bloated or distended belly that may feel soft or fluid-filled to the touch.

• • Difficulty breathing: Chickens with ascites often struggle to breathe, particularly when exerting themselves.

• • Lethargy: Affected chickens may become less active and spend more time sitting.

• • Pale comb and wattles: Due to oxygen deprivation, combs and wattles might lose their bright red coloration.

What is Egg Binding?

Egg binding occurs when a hen is unable to pass an egg through her oviduct. This condition is particularly common in young hens just starting to lay, older hens with calcium deficiencies, or hens that are overweight.

Causes of Egg Binding

• • Nutritional imbalances: Inadequate calcium, vitamin D, or other essential nutrients can weaken the muscles needed for laying eggs.

• • Large or misshapen eggs: Oversized or irregularly shaped eggs may become stuck in the reproductive tract.

• • Stress: Sudden changes in environment, predation threats, or overcrowding can disrupt the laying process.

• • Obesity: Excess weight can make it harder for a hen to expel eggs.

Symptoms of Egg Binding

• • Straining: A hen may be seen repeatedly attempting to push, often without success.

• • Lethargy: Like ascites, egg-bound hens may become listless and avoid movement.

• • Abnormal posture: An egg-bound hen might adopt a “penguin-like” stance, standing upright with her tail down.

• • Lack of appetite: These hens often stop eating or drinking.

• • Palpable egg: Gently feeling the abdomen may reveal a hard, round object near the vent.

How to Differentiate Between Ascites and Egg Binding

While both egg binding and Ascites can cause abdominal swelling and lethargy, there are critical differences:

• • Texture of the abdomen: In ascites, the swelling is due to fluid, so the abdomen feels soft and squishy. In egg binding, the abdomen is firm and hard because of the stuck egg.

• • Location of swelling: Ascites causes generalized abdominal swelling, while egg binding usually creates swelling closer to the vent.

• • Breathing difficulties: While both conditions can impact breathing, it is more pronounced in ascites due to pressure on the lungs and heart.

• • Egg production history: If the hen has not laid eggs recently or shows signs of laying difficulties, egg binding is more likely.

Treating Ascites or Egg Binding

Treatment for Ascites

• • Immediate care: A veterinarian may use a sterile syringe to drain the accumulated fluid from the abdomen. This is a temporary relief measure and does not address the underlying cause.

• • Improve living conditions: Ensure the coop has proper ventilation and reduce ammonia buildup by cleaning regularly.

• • Dietary adjustments: Feed your chickens a balanced diet tailored to their growth and production stages. Reducing growth rates in broilers can help prevent pulmonary hypertension.

• • Veterinary care: Seek professional guidance to identify and manage underlying conditions, such as infections or organ failure.

Treatment for Egg Binding

• • Warm bath: Soaking the hen in warm water for 15-20 minutes can help relax her muscles and encourage the egg to pass.

• • Gentle massage: Lubricate the vent area and gently massage the abdomen to help move the egg down the oviduct.

• • Increase calcium intake: Provide a calcium supplement to strengthen the hen’s muscles and improve contractions.

• • Isolate and monitor: Place the hen in a quiet, dimly lit area to reduce stress and allow her to focus on passing the egg.

• • Veterinary intervention: If the egg cannot be passed naturally, a vet may need to manually remove it or perform more invasive procedures.

Prevention Tips for Ascites or Egg Binding

For Ascites:

• • Keep your chickens at a healthy weight, especially broilers.

• • Maintain excellent coop ventilation.

• • Provide a well-balanced diet and appropriate energy levels.

• • Monitor for signs of respiratory diseases and address them early.

For Egg Binding:

• • Feed hens a calcium-rich diet, supplemented with oyster shell or similar sources.

• • Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.

• • Provide clean nesting areas to reduce stress during laying.

• • Ensure consistent access to clean water.

Final Thoughts

Chickens are resilient creatures, but conditions like ascites or egg binding require prompt attention. Regular observation, good nutrition, and proper care can prevent these issues and help ensure your flock remains healthy and productive. When in doubt, consulting a veterinarian experienced in poultry care can provide critical guidance and improve outcomes for your birds.