How do you set up a cage for a pregnant rat? - briefly
Use a spacious, well‑ventilated cage with soft, dust‑free bedding, ample nesting material, and separate, easily accessible food and water containers; maintain a quiet, temperature‑stable environment and limit handling to reduce stress.
How do you set up a cage for a pregnant rat? - in detail
Choosing an appropriate enclosure is the first step. A solid‑bottom cage with smooth, non‑porous walls prevents injuries and allows thorough cleaning. Minimum floor area should be 450 cm² per adult female; increase space by at least 20 % to accommodate the growing abdomen. Wire mesh lids are acceptable if the mesh size does not exceed 0.5 cm to prevent escape.
Bedding must be absorbent, low‑dust, and free of sharp fragments. Paper‑based or aspen shavings meet these criteria. Provide a depth of 2–3 cm, replenishing daily to keep the environment dry and odor‑free. Avoid cedar or pine, which release volatile oils harmful to reproduction.
Nesting material is essential for a gestating rodent. Offer a separate nest box or corner with 5–7 cm of shredded tissue, cotton squares, or specialized nesting sheets. Replace soiled material promptly, but retain enough untouched material for the dam to build a stable nest.
Temperature and humidity control support fetal development. Maintain ambient temperature between 20–24 °C and relative humidity at 45–55 %. Use a calibrated thermometer and hygrometer; adjust with heating pads or humidifiers only if readings fall outside the range.
Nutrition requires a balanced diet enriched with additional protein and calcium. Provide a high‑quality laboratory chow formulated for breeding females, supplemented with fresh vegetables and a calcium source such as cuttlebone. Change food and water daily; use a sipper bottle to prevent spillage.
Cleaning protocol should minimize stress while ensuring hygiene. Perform a full cage change every 5–7 days, using warm water and a mild, non‑ionic detergent followed by thorough rinsing. Disinfect with a 0.1 % bleach solution only if a health issue arises, then rinse again to remove residues.
Monitoring guidelines:
- Observe daily for signs of distress, abnormal posture, or excessive grooming.
- Record weight every 3–4 days; a steady increase of 5–7 g per week indicates normal progression.
- Check nest integrity; a well‑constructed nest suggests the dam’s comfort and readiness for parturition.
By following these specifications, the enclosure will provide a safe, comfortable, and hygienic environment that supports successful gestation and subsequent litter rearing.