About a week ago, I found an orphaned infant literally under the wheel of my car in a shopping center parking lot. I thought it was dead, but on closer inspection, I could see it was breathing. Having no idea where it might have come from, I decided to bring it home & try to nurse it back to health, figuring our chances were slim. Well, six days later, we’re doing well & gaining a little weight. Coat is coming in (variegated brown/black body with white belly & feet), and were passing waste pretty well (pooping independently, but still needing help with urination). Eyes remain closed, so I’m assuming we’re still under two weeks. I found this little one in very close proximity to a pet store & it was only 3grams (underweight, based on what I’ve read). Someone suggested that perhaps it was rejected by the mother & “released” by the pet store. I just can’t imagine how a days old rat would wander across a parking lot by itself? So my first question is, having no clue whether this precious critter is wild or domesticated, how do I determine whether it’s best kept as a pet or released? Having cared for it for days now, I admit I’ve grown attached. I appreciate any insight, experience & advice you can offer. Thanks in advance.
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