Rats can breed at an alarming rate. Do not breed Rats unless you are prepared for alot of babies to follow and alot of work with their well being and overall health. Litters can be from as little as 4-12 babies. Pregnancy lasts from betweem 20-25days. Rats are born bald, with their eyes shut. It is not wise to try and force their eyes open. Their eyes open after a week or so and they start to become more mobile. It is quite common for the mother to eat her babies if she feels they are at threat, its best to leave them till they are around 3-4 weeks old before handling. The mother should be a good 12 weeks old before breeding, it is always wise to sex the babies and seperate them at 6 weeks, although brother and sister, they have been known to breed. This is a serious risk, as it would be a difficult pregnancy for such a young mother and a health risk to the babies. If in doubt ask your vet.
