What is the process of rat birth called? - briefly
The birthing process in rats is termed parturition (commonly referred to as labor or delivery). It consists of uterine contractions that expel the pups from the birth canal.
What is the process of rat birth called? - in detail
The birthing event in rats is referred to as parturition.
During parturition the mother progresses through three distinct phases.
- Stage I (pre‑labor): uterine contractions begin, cervix softens, and the rat exhibits nesting behavior.
- Stage II (expulsion): each pup is delivered one after another, typically within a few minutes of each other. The mother may pause between deliveries to lick and position the newborn.
- Stage III (afterbirth): placentae are expelled, the mother cleans the litter, and initiates nursing.
Gestation in rats lasts approximately 21‑23 days, governed by rising progesterone followed by a surge of estrogen and oxytocin that trigger uterine activity. The hypothalamic‑pituitary‑adrenal axis also contributes to the timing of labor through cortisol release.
A typical litter contains 6‑12 pups, though numbers can range from 1 to 20. Newborns are altricial: blind, hairless, and dependent on maternal milk. The mother provides constant warmth, cleans the pups, and stimulates respiration by licking. Within 24 hours the litter gains weight, and by day 10 they begin to explore the nest.
Understanding parturition in rats is essential for laboratory breeding programs, toxicology studies, and comparative reproductive research.