How can you tell that a rat is giving birth? - briefly
A rat in labor shows a markedly enlarged abdomen, intense nesting and grooming, and the emergence of pale, wriggling newborns from the birth canal. You may also hear soft squeaks and observe the mother licking the pups right after delivery.
How can you tell that a rat is giving birth? - in detail
Rats reach parturition after a gestation of 21‑23 days. Several observable cues indicate that a female is in the act of delivering or about to do so.
Visible abdominal enlargement is the first sign. The belly swells noticeably, often becoming more rounded and taut than during late pregnancy. The skin over the abdomen may appear stretched and slightly glossy.
Nest‑building behavior intensifies. The female gathers bedding material, arranges it into a compact cup, and frequently gnaws at the cage bars or corners to create a secure enclosure. She may become more reclusive, spending prolonged periods in the nest.
Vocalizations increase. High‑pitched squeaks or chattering sounds become common, especially during the actual delivery. These noises are louder and more frequent than the normal chatter of a healthy adult.
Physical signs during delivery include the appearance of a pair of tiny pink or gray pups protruding from the birth canal, followed by a series of subsequent offspring. The mother may exhibit rhythmic abdominal contractions, visible as subtle tightening of the skin.
After each pup is expelled, the female typically consumes the placenta, a behavior known as placentophagy. This action reduces the risk of infection and supplies nutrients. The mother licks the newborns vigorously, stimulating respiration and cleaning the fur.
Post‑birth observations:
- The litter size ranges from 5 to 12 pups on average.
- Newborns are hairless, blind, and dependent on the mother for warmth.
- The mother remains in the nest for 3‑4 days, only leaving briefly to eat or drink.
- Within a week, the pups develop a fine coat and begin to open their eyes.
Monitoring these indicators allows caretakers to confirm that a rat is delivering and to provide appropriate support, such as ensuring adequate bedding, maintaining a stable temperature, and minimizing disturbances during the critical first 48 hours.