BASIC BASIC BASIC RAT genetic question

[Mike Cavanaugh]

Tank one = 2 females
tank two = 2 females
tank three = 2 females

I have One male rat that rotates among the three tanks listed above.

Question. If I wanted to replace the females in tank one because they are getting old, Is it OK to use two sisters produced as a result of tank one, with the same origional male? In other words, can the new females in tank one mate with their dad without issue?


This is a very simple question that I am sure requires a complicated answer.... please take the time to help me out here.


Thanks so much for your help. You all have helped me SOOOO much!

Mike

[littleindiangirl]

Short answer : Yes

Usually people will bring in new males to freshen the blood line. It's how I will do it.

[Stewart_Reptiles]

Yes I usually do so up to 2 generations before bringing new blood in. (Rat & Mice)

[rabernet]

Yes, I have done father to daughter - one generation, and I've even done brother to sister with no issues - in fact, these two give me my largest, healthiest litters every time - but they also both came from a 19 pink litter.

Those are the only 2 brother/sister I've done, and would have ceased if there were any issues.

[wilomn]

I run 10 males and 30 females in 10 cages. I have been doing so for a few years. I have no doubt that all my rats are related but I still get good sized litters of healthy babies.

I only keep my breeders going until they're about 9 months old. Then they get to be boa food and youngsters are brought up.

[Mike Cavanaugh]

Yes I usually do so up to 2 generations before bringing new blood in. (Rat & Mice)

Thank you for your responces..... this was VERY helpfull.


Mike