Alimentary preferences in lactating rats: the role of organic residuals

Abstract

This study assessed the role of adult rat's organic waste on acquisition of food preferences in lactating rats. A group of pup rats was exposed to organic waste of nuliparus rats (demonstrators) 24 hours after ingestion of nut-flavored water, a second group of pups was exposed to organic waste of nuliparus rats (demonstrators) which had ingested tap water. Then, both groups of pups were evaluated in a choice test between nut- and lime- flavored water. The results indicated that only the pups in the second group were indifferent to either flavor. These data suggest that lactating rats identify some properties of adult's diet through organic residuals produced by adults.