Reproductive behavior in female rats: Reproductive behavior in female rats

Buket Boğa Kuru; Mushap Kuru

doi:10.5281/zenodo.8143369

Authors

Buket Boğa Kuru Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Kars, Türkiye https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7170-270X
Mushap Kuru Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafkas University, Kars, Türkiye https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4409-251X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8143369

Keywords:

Female rats, lordosis, pacing, reproduction, sexual behavior

Abstract

Reproductive physiology and sexual behavior in rats play crucial roles in understanding their reproductive capabilities and mating dynamics. Female rats exhibit mating behavior during estrus, involving mounting, intromission, and ejaculation. Lordosis, the arched-back posture, is a characteristic behavior evaluated using the lordosis quotient (LQ). Video recording enables accurate assessment of lordosis, and female rats actively participate in mating through proactive behaviors and vocalizations. In natural settings, females display a range of mating behaviors, indicating their motivation and preferences. Serotonergic drugs’ effects on lordosis are complex and influenced by 5-HT receptor activation. Female rats modulate the mating pace through pacing behavior, optimizing vaginal-cervical stimulation for successful pregnancy. In laboratory settings, females regulate their mating rate through approach and avoidance behaviors. Pacing is measured by the exit ratio and interintromission interval, which increase as sexual stimuli intensify. Pacing reflects the female’s ability to discern sexual cues and execute appropriate motor responses. Understanding reproductive physiology and sexual behavior in female rats provides insights into their reproductive capabilities, mating dynamics, and the impact of serotonergic drugs. Pacing behavior plays a vital role in optimizing reproductive outcomes, highlighting the nuanced nature of sexual behavior in rats. Controlled sexual interactions can elicit positive effects and conditioning, further emphasizing the importance of studying sexual behavior in female rats.

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Reproductive behavior in female rats