Cockatiels, budgerigars (e.g. parakeets) and finches are the most popular pet birds worldwide and the species most commonly affected by egg binding. These birds tend to present with more severe clinical signs, possibly because of their small size. Egg binding is the failure of an egg to pass within a normal period of time. Although there can be variability and numerous additional factors affecting egg laying, most birds will form and lay an egg 24 to 26 hours following ovulation; eggs are generally laid 48 hours apart.
Source: Clinician’s Brief, May 2016.
Prognosis is usually good depending on patient stability at presentation, length of time clinical signs have been present, and successful egg removal. Prognosis for surgery is good with a skilled avian surgeon and if the egg and oviduct are removed to prevent any future egg laying.