What should you feed rat pups after birth? - briefly
Newborn rat pups need a species‑specific milk replacer (approximately 18‑20 % protein) delivered by syringe or droplet feeding every 3–4 hours until they are weaned at about three weeks of age.
What should you feed rat pups after birth? - in detail
Newborn rat pups rely entirely on their mother’s milk for the first 10‑14 days. If the dam is unavailable, a carefully formulated substitute is required to support rapid growth and immune development.
The replacement formula must meet three nutritional criteria: high protein content (approximately 20 % of calories), adequate fat (about 10 % of calories), and a balanced supply of essential vitamins and minerals, especially calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. Commercial rodent milk replacers, such as LabDiet® Rat Milk Substitute or Harlan® Nutritional Formula, are calibrated to these specifications and are the preferred choice.
When preparing the substitute, follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Use sterile water at 37 °C, mix until the solution is homogeneous, and verify the temperature before feeding. The mixture should be administered with a fine‑gauge syringe or a specialized nursing bottle equipped with a 0.5‑mm teat.
Feeding schedule:
- Days 1‑3: 0.1 ml per pup, every 3 hours, including nighttime.
- Days 4‑7: 0.2 ml per pup, every 3 hours.
- Days 8‑14: 0.3‑0.4 ml per pup, every 4 hours.
Adjust volumes based on pup weight and observed intake; under‑feeding leads to stunted growth, while over‑feeding can cause diarrhea.
Key handling practices:
- Warm the formula to body temperature immediately before each feed.
- Hold the pup gently in a prone position; avoid forcing the syringe into the mouth.
- Observe for a swallow reflex; if absent, pause and try again later.
- Clean and sterilize feeding equipment after each use to prevent bacterial contamination.
- Monitor weight daily; a gain of 1‑2 g per day indicates adequate nutrition.
Transition to solid food begins around day 14. Introduce a soft mash made from high‑protein rodent chow mixed with water or formula. Reduce supplemental feeding gradually over 2‑3 days while increasing access to the mash.
Maintaining a clean environment, providing adequate humidity (55‑65 % relative humidity), and minimizing stress are essential for successful rearing of rat neonates.