What should be done when a rat is pregnant? - briefly
Supply a high‑quality diet enriched with extra protein, calories, and essential vitamins, keep the cage quiet, and limit handling of the abdomen. Arrange a veterinary examination to confirm pregnancy and receive guidance on prenatal care.
What should be done when a rat is pregnant? - in detail
A pregnant rat requires specific husbandry to protect both the dam and the developing litter. Provide a spacious, quiet cage with a solid floor; avoid wire mesh that can cause injuries. Maintain a stable temperature between 20 °C and 24 °C and keep humidity around 50 %. Reduce stressors such as loud noises, sudden handling, and excessive cage cleaning during gestation.
Nutrition must be upgraded. Supply a high‑calorie, high‑protein diet formulated for breeding rodents. Increase the amount of pellets by 10‑20 % and add fresh vegetables, fruits, and a small portion of boiled egg or plain yogurt for extra protein. Ensure constant access to clean water; a water bottle with a metal spout prevents contamination.
Health monitoring should be frequent. Observe the dam daily for signs of distress, abnormal discharge, or weight loss. Record body weight each week; a gain of 5‑10 % per week is typical. If any illness appears, isolate the animal and consult a veterinarian experienced with rodents.
Prepare a nesting area in the last week of gestation. Provide a corner of shredded paper, tissue, or commercially available nesting material. Encourage the dam to build a nest by limiting bedding to the designated area. Avoid handling the rat after day 15 of pregnancy to prevent premature delivery.
At parturition, keep the cage undisturbed for the first 24 hours. Monitor the litter for adequate nursing; each pup should be pink, warm, and gaining weight. If any neonate appears weak or unresponsive, intervene promptly with gentle warming and, if necessary, supplemental feeding using a specialized formula.
Post‑birth care includes continued high‑quality nutrition for the dam and cleaning the cage only when soiled. Separate the dam from the litter after weaning (typically day 21) to prevent aggression and to allow the dam to recover before future breeding cycles.