What should a lactating rat be fed? - briefly
Provide a nutritionally complete rodent diet formulated for breeding females, containing at least 18–20 % protein, adequate fat (≈5 %), and balanced vitamins and minerals. Supplement with fresh water and, if needed, additional high‑quality protein sources such as soy or whey isolate.
What should a lactating rat be fed? - in detail
A nursing rat requires a diet that supplies sufficient energy, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals to support milk production and the growth of its litter. Energy density should be high, typically 3.5–4.0 kcal g⁻¹, to meet the increased metabolic demand. Protein content must be at least 20 % of the diet, with a favorable amino‑acid profile rich in lysine, methionine, and tryptophan. Fat should comprise 5–10 % of the formulation, providing essential fatty acids such as linoleic and α‑linolenic acids.
Key micronutrients include:
- Calcium: 1.0–1.5 % of diet, supporting milk calcium levels.
- Phosphorus: 0.8–1.2 % of diet, balanced with calcium (Ca:P ≈ 1.2–1.5:1).
- Vitamin D₃: 1 000–2 000 IU kg⁻¹, facilitating calcium absorption.
- Vitamin E: 100–200 IU kg⁻¹, protecting milk lipids from oxidation.
- Vitamin A: 4 000–6 000 IU kg⁻¹, essential for pup development.
- B‑complex vitamins, especially B₁₂ and folic acid, to sustain maternal metabolism.
Commercial rodent breeder chow meets these specifications and is the most reliable source. When using a standard laboratory diet, supplement with:
- A high‑calorie gel or mash (e.g., sweetened oatmeal) to increase fluid and energy intake.
- Extra casein or soy protein isolate to boost protein levels if the base diet falls short.
- Mineral blocks enriched with calcium and phosphorus for ad‑libitum access.
Water must be continuously available, preferably in a bottle with a sipper to prevent contamination. Warmed water (≈ 30 °C) encourages consumption during the early postpartum period.
Feeding schedule should allow unrestricted access; limiting intake reduces milk output and may compromise pup growth. Monitor body condition and litter weight gain daily; adjust diet composition if the dam loses > 10 % of her pre‑partum weight or if pups fail to gain ≥ 2 g day⁻¹.
In summary, a high‑energy, high‑protein breeder diet supplemented with adequate calcium, phosphorus, and fat‑soluble vitamins, combined with unrestricted fresh water, provides the nutritional foundation for successful lactation in rats.