How to care for newborn rats? - briefly
Provide a warm, humid enclosure, ensure the mother receives a high‑protein diet, and limit handling until the pups are weaned. Maintain strict hygiene, monitor weight gain daily, and supply fresh water and suitable bedding throughout the nesting period.
How to care for newborn rats? - in detail
Newborn rats require a stable, warm environment. Maintain ambient temperature between 28 °C and 30 °C for the first week; a heating pad or incubator with a low‑wattage bulb can provide consistent heat. Monitor temperature with a digital probe placed near, but not directly under, the nest to prevent overheating.
The mother supplies all nutrition during the first ten days. Ensure the dam has unrestricted access to fresh water and a high‑protein diet, such as lab‑grade pellets supplemented with occasional fresh vegetables. Avoid handling the litter until the pups are at least five days old, as premature disturbance can cause the mother to reject them.
Hygiene is critical. Change bedding daily, using soft, absorbent material like shredded paper or aspen chips. Keep the cage away from drafts and direct sunlight. Disinfect the enclosure weekly with a mild, non‑toxic solution (e.g., diluted bleach 1:100) and rinse thoroughly before returning animals.
Health monitoring should begin at birth. Observe for signs of distress: lack of movement, failure to nurse, or abnormal coloration. Weigh each pup daily with a precision scale; a steady weight gain of 2–3 g per day indicates adequate nutrition. Record any deviations and consult a veterinarian promptly.
Weaning starts around day ten. Gradually introduce solid food by placing a small amount of softened pellets in the cage. Increase the quantity each day while reducing reliance on maternal milk. By day twenty, pups should consume solid food exclusively and be separated from the dam.
Social interaction supports normal development. After weaning, house juveniles in groups of three to five to encourage grooming and play behavior. Provide enrichment items such as tunnels, chew blocks, and climbing structures to stimulate activity and prevent stereotypies.
Finally, maintain accurate records of birth dates, litter size, weight trajectories, and any medical interventions. Consistent documentation facilitates early detection of problems and ensures compliance with laboratory animal welfare standards.