Egg bound is a term used to describe the condition wherein laying hens, birds or reptiles are unable to pass an egg that had formed, usually stuck near their cloaca or deeper inside. This condition is very common and potentially serious as it could lead to damages of internal tissues and infections.

Diagnosis can be made through a physical examination and basic x-ray.

Treatment involves a veterinarian inserting a needle into the egg and withdrawing its contents with a syringe, which would cause the egg to collapse and eventually removed. Non-surgical options involve administering oxytocin to improve contractions and allow the eggs to pass normally.

Symptoms of egg binding include hens sitting on the floor a lot, excessive straining, large dropping and visual swollen clues that suggest the bird is having problems passing the egg.

Egg binding is caused by egg malformation, wherein the egg is too large for the animal to pass. Other causes include weakness due to illness, stress, hormonal imbalance and improper husbandry. Factors that may increase the risk of animals to egg bound include calcium deficiency, improper laying areas, overfeeding and breeding animals that are either too small or too young.