08/05/2026
🐔 Chicken Health Spotlight: Water Belly (Ascites)
"Water belly" is a general term used when fluid builds up inside a chicken's abdomen. It is not a disease itself, but rather a sign of an underlying health problem. One of the most common causes we see is Egg Yolk Peritonitis, although cardiovascular disease, liver disease, and nutritional deficiencies can also lead to fluid accumulation.
🥚 Egg Yolk Peritonitis occurs when egg yolks are released into the abdomen instead of the reproductive tract. Over time, the yolks cause irritation and inflammation of the internal organs, leading to fluid buildup and discomfort. Affected hens often stop eating, become lethargic, lose weight, and develop a swollen abdomen.
If diagnosed early, surgery by an avian veterinarian may be an option. Unfortunately, advanced cases have limited treatment options, and other reproductive diseases, such as oviduct impaction or cancer, are often present as well.
If you notice your chicken developing a swollen abdomen, decreased appetite, weight loss, or lethargy, a veterinary examination is recommended. Identifying the underlying cause early provides the best opportunity for treatment and improved quality of life.
Have questions about your flock? Contact Roxbury Animal Hospital to schedule an examination.
