Rat Reproduction - Anatomy & Physiology

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BACK TO REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM
BACK TO SMALL DOMESTIC MAMMALS



Male

  • Sexually mature at 6-8 weeks
  • Open inguinal canals throughout life.



Female


  • Non-seasonal polyoestrus
  • Oestrus cycle 4-5 days.
  • Duration of oestrus is ~14 hours.


  • Ejaculate plug forms in the vagina.



  • Litter size 6-16
  • Altricial young
    • Eyes open at 12-14 days.
  • Earliest weaning age 21 days.
  • Care not to stress mother or she may cannibalise the young.


  • 5 pairs of teats.