How to tell that a rat will give birth soon? - briefly
A pregnant rat shows a swollen abdomen, enlarged nipples, and increased nesting activity, often gathering soft material in a corner. She may also become less active and display a calm demeanor as delivery approaches.
How to tell that a rat will give birth soon? - in detail
Rats reach the end of a gestation period of roughly 21‑23 days, and several observable changes indicate that parturition is imminent.
Physical alterations become apparent first. The abdomen expands noticeably, often taking on a rounded, pendulous shape as the fetuses fill the uterine horns. Mammary glands enlarge, darken, and may begin secreting a milky fluid, especially in the days immediately preceding delivery. The vulva swells and may appear reddened or moist, signaling preparation for birth.
Behavioral shifts accompany these morphological signs. A pregnant female typically constructs a nest, gathering bedding, paper, or other soft material and arranging it into a compact, insulated area. Nest‑building intensifies about 48‑72 hours before labor. During this phase the rat may become more reclusive, spending extended periods in the nesting site and reducing interaction with cage mates. Grooming frequency often increases, particularly around the abdomen and mammary region.
Nutritional patterns also change. Food consumption may rise sharply as the mother stores energy for lactation, while water intake generally increases to support milk production. Some individuals exhibit a brief decrease in appetite a day or two before delivery, followed by a rapid rebound after the pups are born.
Monitoring these indicators requires systematic observation. A practical approach includes:
- Daily visual checks for abdominal swelling and mammary development.
- Measurement of body weight every 24 hours; a gain of 2‑5 g per day signals fetal growth, while a plateau or slight loss may precede birth.
- Inspection of the vulva for edema or discharge.
- Observation of nesting activity, noting the amount of material gathered and the time spent in the nest.
- Recording feeding and drinking behavior, noting any abrupt changes.
When most of these signs converge—marked abdominal distension, pronounced mammary enlargement, active nest construction, and altered feeding patterns—it is reasonable to conclude that delivery will occur within the next 24‑48 hours. Providing a quiet, low‑traffic environment and ensuring ample clean nesting material at this stage supports a successful birth and reduces stress for the mother.