What should you do when rats are born? - briefly
Isolate the nest and seal all entry points to stop further infestation. Then contact a licensed pest‑control professional to arrange humane removal or, if appropriate, safe care for the newborn rodents.
What should you do when rats are born? - in detail
When you encounter a litter of newborn rats, first identify whether the animals are domestic pets, laboratory subjects, or wild. This determines the appropriate response and legal obligations.
Assess the mother’s condition. Check for signs of injury, illness, or stress. If the adult appears sick or injured, isolate her from the pups and seek veterinary care. Ensure the nesting area is clean, dry, and insulated; replace damp bedding with fresh, soft material such as shredded paper or commercial rodent nest substrate.
Provide nutrition for the dam. Offer a high‑calorie, protein‑rich diet formulated for lactating rodents, supplemented with fresh water. Do not attempt to feed the infants directly; they rely on the mother’s milk during the first three weeks.
Monitor the litter daily. Verify that each pup is warm, gaining weight, and that the mother is nursing regularly. Look for signs of neglect, such as cold pups, lack of milk, or excessive maternal aggression. If any pup appears weak or abandoned, intervene promptly by warming the infant and contacting a wildlife rehabilitator or veterinarian.
Maintain hygiene. Remove soiled bedding, disinfect the enclosure with a rodent‑safe sanitizer, and control parasites with appropriate treatments approved by a veterinarian. Keep the environment free of predators, loud noises, and sudden temperature changes.
If the rats are unwanted wild animals, implement humane control measures. Seal entry points to prevent further ingress, set up live traps if removal is necessary, and consult local wildlife authorities for guidance on legal disposal.
Document the situation. Record dates of birth, health observations, and any interventions. This information assists veterinary professionals and wildlife agencies in providing appropriate care.
Finally, after the weaning period (approximately three weeks), transition the juveniles to a balanced adult diet, gradually reducing supplemental feeding. Provide enrichment items to promote natural behaviors and prevent stress.
These actions collectively ensure the health of the mother and offspring, comply with animal‑welfare standards, and address potential public‑health concerns.