How to properly breed rats? - briefly
Choose genetically compatible, disease‑free adults and house them in a well‑ventilated enclosure with ample bedding, nesting material, and a high‑quality diet enriched with protein and calcium. After birth, keep the dam undisturbed, provide fresh water and food, and separate the offspring at three weeks to prevent overcrowding and inbreeding.
How to properly breed rats? - in detail
Select healthy, unrelated individuals for the breeding pair. Verify that each rat has passed a veterinary health check, is free of common parasites, and shows no signs of respiratory or dermatological disease. Record lineage to avoid inadvertent inbreeding and to maintain desired genetic traits.
Provide a spacious cage with solid flooring, appropriate bedding, and secure ventilation. Maintain temperature between 18 °C and 24 °C and humidity around 50 %. Install a nesting box with soft material to encourage maternal behavior. Ensure constant access to fresh water and a balanced diet high in protein and calcium, supplemented with vitamin C if needed.
Introduce the male to the female’s enclosure during the dark phase, when rats are most active. Observe for mounting behavior; successful copulation typically lasts a few seconds and may repeat several times over 24 hours. Remove the male after two to three days to prevent stress to the pregnant female.
Gestation lasts approximately 21–23 days. Monitor the dam for weight gain, increased nesting activity, and a gradual enlargement of the abdomen. Provide additional nesting material and limit disturbances during the final week. Prepare a clean, low‑profile area for parturition, ensuring easy access for the mother.
At birth, pups are born hairless, blind, and dependent. Do not handle them for the first five days; allow the dam to establish a strong bond. Begin gentle handling after this period, increasing duration daily to habituate the young to human contact. Provide supplemental heat if ambient temperature falls below 20 °C.
Wean pups at 21 days of age. Separate males and females into distinct cages to prevent premature breeding. Continue monitoring weight gain; each pup should reach at least 100 g before relocation. Maintain consistent feeding schedules and clean environments to support growth.
Document all breeding events, including dates of pairing, conception, birth, litter size, and any health issues. Use this record to assess reproductive performance, identify genetic trends, and make informed decisions for future pairings. Regularly review data to optimize breeding outcomes and maintain colony health.