Rats are incredibly prolific creatures and can have litters of anywhere between two and twelve baby rats. The average litter size is six. This means that over the course of their relatively short lives a female rat can easily produce over fifty offspring.
Rats are able to become pregnant again almost immediately after giving birth which contributes to their high reproductive potential. They can have up to seven litters per year although the average is three or four.
Given the large number of babies that rats can have it’s not surprising that their population can grow very quickly. If not kept in check a small number of rats can quickly turn into a large infestation.
Fortunately rats are not particularly difficult to control and there are a number of effective methods for doing so. If you think you may have a rat problem the best course of action is to contact a professional pest control company who will be able to advise you on the best course of action.
How often do rats usually give birth?
Rats usually give birth every three to five weeks.
How many litters can a rat have in her lifetime?
A rat can have up to 42 litters in her lifetime.
How many babies are in a typical litter?
There are between four and twelve babies in a typical litter.
How long does it take for a rat to gestate?
It takes 21 to 23 days for a rat to gestate.
How long do baby rats stay with their mother?
Baby rats stay with their mother for three to four weeks.
At what age are baby rats weaned?
Baby rats are weaned at four to six weeks old.
How long do rats live?
Rats live for two to three years.
How much do baby rats weigh at birth?
Baby rats weigh between 10 and 15 grams at birth.
How much do adult rats weigh?
Adult rats weigh between 350 and 500 grams.
What do baby rats look like?
Baby rats are pink and hairless at birth.
How long does it take for baby rats to grow their fur?
It takes baby rats two to three weeks to grow their fur.
What is the average lifespan of a pet rat?
The average lifespan of a pet rat is three to four years.
How much should I feed my rat?
You should feed your rat one ounce of food per day.
What kind of food do rats eat?
Rats are omnivores and will eat both plant and animal-based foods.
Do rats need water?
Yes rats need water and should have access to a water bottle at all times.
