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How to know when a pet rat loves or feels safe with you?

I got a 6 week old fancy rat a few days a go. My mum got me a little carrier cage to hold him in as we went home, but he wouldn't stay in, there was poo and pee everywhere,I got him out and he snuggled down on me straight away, he hasn't ever pooed on me, he has only peed on me once. He is still quite skittish though. He doesn't like being held often, but he clings onto the door and he stays in the corner of his cage closest to my bed. He is on my neck as I write this. Bless his Cotton piking heart <3 I love him to bits, he is absolutely amazing. Don't worry his has a friend living with him. All though they have been fighting a little bit, sometimes him starting it, and sometimes the other rat starting it. Alright, thank you in advance <3

3 Answers

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  • Anonymous
    10 years ago
    Favorite Answer

    A good way to know is; if they stop pooping and peeing on you when you pick them up, he is not scared anymore. They might still try to scramble away, but that too will fade over time. Males do occasionally leave 'spores' while out of the cage, so that doesn't mean anything per se.

    If he sits on your shoulder without trying to scramble off, I'd say he feels pretty safe. Some rats just really hate being picked up. He's still young, so odds are he's still getting used to it. It's an odd sensation for a rat to be picked up, and as prey animals, it takes them some getting used to. When you go to pick him up, try to be firm, but not too fast, so as not to startle him. Try not to pounce on him from above, but try to scoop him up swiftly, from the side, and without hesitation. It takes some practice.

    Some rats will try anything to get back to the cage if you stay right next to it. Try and take him away from the cage, and he might already calm down. Keep taking him out regularly, so he'll get used to handling and your smell. Good luck!

  • 10 years ago

    When rats are happy and relaxed around you, they will brux. (grind/chatter their teeth) Once they get more used to you, they usually run up to greet you if you are by the cage.

    Also, it is normal for rats to wrestle/fight. It is how they play and establish dominance.

  • Anonymous
    10 years ago

    No need he loves you but not comfortable enough ,

    soon he will be okay!

    :) :) :)

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