on catching the rats, does it matter if you do not catch any, i do not need a save.

I will move you to casual games forum.

The walkthrough states: A bonus round appears!
Click, hold, drag, and drop as many rats into the rat house within the allotted time.

So it looks like it is an optional puzzle and can be skipped.

Maybe someone that has played the game will help us.

I can't remember - it's been too long since I played this game, but the full walkthrough is here. Maybe that will help answer your question.

thank you guys very much.

Have fun with the game.