How does a rat feed its pups? - briefly
The mother rat lactates and nurses her litters by allowing the pups to suckle at her nipples, typically feeding them multiple times daily to ensure rapid growth.
How does a rat feed its pups? - in detail
A lactating female rat produces milk in specialized mammary glands that open onto the nipples within the nest. The newborns attach to these nipples and stimulate milk ejection through rhythmic sucking, which triggers the release of oxytocin and prolactin. Milk flow is continuous for the first few days, providing all necessary nutrients—proteins, fats, carbohydrates, antibodies, and micronutrients.
The mother typically nurses the litter every two to three hours, alternating between pups to ensure equitable intake. During each session, a pup may nurse for 30–60 seconds before being gently displaced by the dam or a sibling. The dam’s frequent repositioning of the pups maintains optimal temperature and reduces the risk of hypothermia.
In addition to direct nursing, the mother engages in extensive grooming. She licks the pups’ fur and facial area, removing debris and stimulating circulation. Grooming also encourages the pups to explore the nest, supporting the development of motor skills.
Weaning begins around the third week postpartum. The dam gradually reduces nursing frequency while increasing the availability of solid food in the nest. By day 21, most offspring transition to an exclusively solid diet, though occasional nursing may persist until day 28.
Key stages of maternal nourishment:
- Birth to day 3: Continuous nursing, high-frequency suckling, intense grooming.
- Day 4–10: Nursing intervals extend to 3–4 hours; milk composition shifts to higher fat content.
- Day 11–21: Gradual reduction in nursing duration; introduction of solid food.
- Day 22–28: Predominant solid diet; occasional nursing for supplemental calories.
The process ensures rapid growth, immune protection, and preparation for independent foraging.