03/06/2026
Prolapse in laying birds* = when part of the oviduct/vent "turns inside out" and protrudes outside the body. It’s also called "blowout" or "pickout" by farmers.
*Why it happens in layers*
1. *Large/double-yolk eggs* - too big for the oviduct
2. *Obesity* - excess fat puts pressure on the reproductive tract
3. *Early lay* - birds coming into lay too young, before pelvic bones widen
4. *Calcium/phosphorus imbalance* - weakens muscle tone
5. *Straining* - from constipation, respiratory disease, or water deprivation
6. *High protein/low fiber diet* - causes oversized eggs
7. *Bright light + long photoperiod* - pushes hens to lay too early/intensively
*What it looks like*
Pink/red tissue protruding from the vent after laying. If other birds see it, they’ll peck at it. That leads to bleeding, cannibalism, and usually death if not treated fast.
*First aid if you catch it early*
1. *Isolate* the hen immediately - pecked prolapses get fatal fast
2. *Clean* the tissue gently with warm saline/water + mild antiseptic. No soap
3. *Reduce swelling* - apply sugar, honey, or cold compress for 10-15 min
4. *Push it back in* with a gloved, lubricated finger. Be very gentle
5. *Keep her in dim light* 8-10 hrs/day for 3-5 days to stop egg laying. No calcium during this period
6. *Anti-inflammatory + antibiotics* from a vet help prevent infection
# # # *Prevention in flocks*
- *Body weight control*: Don’t let pullets get overweight before 18-20 weeks
- *Light management*: Gradual increase in light, don’t stimulate lay too early
- *Balanced diet*: Correct Ca:P ratio ∼4:1, enough fiber, avoid excess protein after peak
- *Clean water always* - dehydration causes straining
- *Cull repeat offenders* - birds that prolapse once are likely to do it again
*Important*: Prolapse is an emergency. If the tissue is dark/purple, torn, or the bird is weak, don’t hesitate to separate such birds fast until recovery ,or cull if the effect is much.
