What should you do during a rat’s pregnancy? - briefly
Supply a nutritionally complete, high‑protein diet and fresh water, while maintaining a quiet, clean cage with ample nesting material. Limit handling, monitor weight gain, and arrange a veterinary check before the expected delivery date.
What should you do during a rat’s pregnancy? - in detail
Provide a balanced diet enriched with protein and calcium. Offer high‑quality rodent pellets, supplemented with boiled eggs, plain yogurt, and occasional fresh vegetables such as carrots or leafy greens. Ensure continuous access to clean water; replace daily to prevent contamination.
Maintain a quiet, low‑stress environment. Relocate the female to a spacious cage that includes nesting material (e.g., shredded paper or aspen shavings) at least two weeks before the expected delivery date. Keep the cage away from loud equipment and other aggressive animals. Limit handling to brief, gentle checks; avoid excessive disturbance during the third trimester.
Monitor health indicators daily. Record body weight, noting an increase of 10–15 % over baseline as a typical sign of progression. Observe for signs of respiratory distress, abnormal discharge, or lethargy, and consult a veterinarian promptly if they appear.
Prepare for parturition. About five days before birth, add a separate nesting box with soft bedding. Check that the box is secure and free of sharp objects. Keep the temperature stable between 20–24 °C; avoid drafts. Provide a supplemental heat source only if ambient temperature falls below this range, and ensure it cannot be reached by the rat.
After the litter arrives, continue a nutrient‑dense diet, adding extra calcium sources such as mineral blocks. Limit the mother’s exposure to other rats for at least two weeks to reduce stress and prevent infanticide. Observe the pups for normal development: steady weight gain, bright eyes, and active nursing behavior.
Schedule a veterinary examination within two weeks postpartum to assess the mother’s recovery and the health of the offspring. Use the findings to adjust feeding, housing, and care protocols for future pregnancies.