Effects of litter size on nursing time and weight of the young in guinea pigs

Abstract

Fifteen female guinea pigs were observed with their offspring for Days 1–28 postpartum. The larger the litter (one to four animals), the greater the percentage of nursing time. With the exception of the four-animal litters, the smaller the litter, the greater the weight of the young. Finally, there was no relationship between litter size and the number of positive or negative nursing responses directed toward each pup. © 1970, Psychonomic Journals, Inc.. All rights reserved.