Yolk material misses the oviduct and drops into the abdomen, triggering infection. The hen develops a swollen belly and waddles. Often fatal even with treatment.
AI illustration of Egg Yolk Peritonitis
Mix of AI illustrations and anonymized real cases shared by community keepers. Visual severity varies by bird, age, and stage.
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This needs a vet. Antibiotics, anti inflammatories, and sometimes belly drainage may buy time. Hormone implants can shut down laying in valued pets. Without veterinary care, prognosis is poor.
Prevention
Manage weight in production breeds. Avoid year round artificial lighting that pushes constant laying. Consider hormone implants in pet hens prone to reproductive disease.
