Stimuli Associated with Pregnancy Prepare for Maternal Behavior in Rats

Abstract
Cohabitation with pregnant females decreased the time required for reproductively naive female rats to become maternal with constant stimulation by pups. Experience with a companion's parturition did not add to experience related to her pregnancy. Exposure to pregnancy-related stimuli also increased nestbuilding as an initial response of virgins to pups. Social isolation for 9 days before exposure to pups decreased both contact with pups and cannibalism.

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