How Long Do Rats Stay Pregnant?
WouterRats are capable of gestation for a short period of time, as long as the animal is kept in an environment that promotes fetal development. During the period of gestation, female rats undergo several examinations. These examinations are done on alternating days. Each examination detects two to three embryos per litter. In addition, the temperature of the fetus is monitored.
The gestation period for rat females is normally twenty-two days, although the period can vary. The postpartum period lasts about twenty-eight days. Two weeks after conception, the female will begin to stretch and suck in the sides. She will then clean her uterus and birth sac. She will also begin eating the umbilical cord and placenta.
Rats give birth between 21 and 26 days after they have been impregnated. It is advisable that female rats do not nurse during this time. Female rats should be kept separated from opposite sex rats. In addition, the female rats should have two months of rest between pregnancies to regain their strength.
Rats can have up to seven litters a year. Female rats may become aggressive and territorial during the pregnancy. They will also gather nest materials. This nesting material is typically plant matter. Therefore, you should always provide soft materials for your pet rats to make nests with. Rats are able to become pregnant every four to five days when they are in heat. The frequent estrous cycle of female rats provides plenty of opportunity for them to become pregnant. Female rats may have as many as six litters a year.
