[24 hour rhythm of feed and water consumption by BD IX rats in relation to pregnancy and lactation].

Abstract

The 24-hour rhythms of food and water consumption of non-fertilized female rats, of pregnant and lactating animals of a conventionally maintained BD IX stock has been determined. The mean food consumption has been found to be, in the same order, 20.6 g/d, 25.3 g/d, and 48.6 g/d, respectively. In the dark the corresponding values were, respectively, 79, 76 and 67.5%. Maximum food consumption of these 3 animal groups were registered between 10.00 p.m. and 02.00 a.m., from 06.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m., and from 06.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m., respectively. At first the pattern is unimodal, but it becomes bimodal during pregnancy and lactation. In corresponding time periods the mean water consumption was, respectively, 28.7, 33.8 and 64.7 ml/d. The maxima corresponded to those of food consumption. Food and water consumption was estrous-dependent and decreased significantly in the perinatal phase. During laction the food and water consumption showed a 2-day rhythm, beginning from day 9 onwards.