Rat Handling Questions???

[Batdad]

OK two questions:

1) First one is more of a clarification, is it Ok to handle rats by tailing them as you do with mice? I ask because it appears that my allergies to fur bearing animals might extend to rats. If that is the case then the options are wearing a glove or tailing. Tailing would just be more convenient at times.

2) Secondly one of my new rats had a small litter of 4 pups so far, noticed them as I was shutting things down for the night. Does it hurt to take some or all the pups away or is it better to leave some? If I go to take them should I give mom a couple of days or is right away better?

I am new to the breeding thing and am just getting the rodents set up in their new home, hope to have the auto watering system set up tomorrow.

Thanks
Bruce