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newborn ratties

21 17:40:23

Question
One of my girlies, Bashful, is a Houdini and manages to get out of the tightest of bars. We moved her to a tiny cage that she couldn't get out of, but it was too late. We thought she could be pregnant (by one of her brothers, in another room and cage)and today we discovered that she had been.
I'm concerned about the genetic factor. What is the prognosis for a good quality of life for the babies?  Bashful, doesn't seem like a very doting momma. Her momma was incredible with her 8, but Bashful is staying away. Bashful is a little 10 months old.

Answer
Provided she cares for them (nurses, cleans, etc.); the babies should be fine. Usually linebreeding/inbreeding isn't an issue, if thats what you're concerned about; until 4 or 5 lines repeated (mother to son/brother to sister repeatedly litter after litter, for example). Some mamas are more aloof than others.. some are very protective and some are just plain ol' super mom. Just like with people!