baby mouse or rat?

Question
I'm not so sure if it's a mouse or a baby rat. He did very well through the night. I got up every two and a half hours. He's licking the milk off my hand.

I just want to know what do I look for if it's a mouse or a rat?

Oh and his one eye is starting to open. Just a peak though.

Thanks again.
Kate

Answer
Dear Kate,

A baby wild mouse at age 2 (weeks) shouldn't be much over an inch and a half long not counting the tail.  A baby rat would be bigger than that.

To tell the truth, I know mouse people who can't tell the difference between a photograph of a young rat and a full grown mouse!  But there are differences, such as that rats have smaller ears and smaller heads as compared to mice.

In any case, it will be a wonderful pet.  Rats are incredibly smart and sweet creatures.  They learn their names, can be litter trained, greet their people, can learn a lot of tricks, and generally are loving and cute and clever.  

Have fun!

squeaks n giggles,

Natasha