Final answer:
Rat pups are typically weaned at 21-28 days of age, with 14-21 days being the general timeframe for weaning in rat species.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rat pups are normally weaned at 21-28 days of age. Rat weaning is an important developmental stage where the pups transition from mother's milk to solid food. Prior to weaning, the pups are completely dependent on their mother for nutrition. After weaning, they are able to consume solid foods and become more independent. This stage is critical for their growth and the development of survival skills. A weaning age of 14-21 days (option A) is generally considered the appropriate time frame for most rat species in both laboratory settings and in the wild. Options B (7-10 days), C (28-35 days), and D (42-49 days) are either too early or too late for the natural weaning process of rat pups.
Rat pups are normally weaned at 21 days of age.
Weaning refers to the transition from a diet of purely mother's milk to solid food. During this process, the mother gradually reduces her milk production, and the pups start to eat solid food on their own.
In the case of rat pups, they are typically fully weaned by 21 days of age. This means that by this age, they are able to eat solid food and no longer rely on their mother's milk for nutrition.