How Quickly Can Rats Breed?
WouterRats have a short gestation period and can begin breeding as soon as they reach the reproductive age. They can mate as early as three months after their first appearance. In a matter of weeks, the female will give birth to a litter of six to twelve babies. This rapid breeding cycle makes prevention of infestations of rats essential.
Rats can breed at any age, including very old females. Some have been found to be pregnant after two years of age. These owners assumed their rats were old enough to not be breeding. However, they ended up with over 30 babies! This is an alarming problem that needs to be addressed immediately.
Rats are very easy to breed. Females can produce up to six litters of pups each year. It is best to separate the sexes before five weeks to prevent excessive breeding. In addition to separating sexes, very hot and cold temperatures can reduce the rate of reproduction. Female rats come into heat four to five times a year. During the gestation period, female rats may go into heat two or three times per month.
Rats’ oestrus cycle lasts four to six days. Once the rat has mated, the eggs mature in the ovaries. These will be released eight hours after mating. The rat is also a reflex ovulator, which means that it will ovulate at a certain time. When a rat is in heat, she will start to jump around and vibrate.
