How long before you can handle a new rat?

Begin bonding with your rat 1-2 days after you first get it. Whether you bought your rat as a baby or you are adopting your rat an as adult, give it 1-2 days to adjust to its new home. After the rat is settled, start petting it and letting it sniff your hand to strengthen your bond.

How can I make my rat more comfortable?

Sit near their cage every day and talk to them. Open it up and pet them once they’re used to your hands. After they’ve been hand-tamed, rats should spend time daily in a secure playpen out of their cage. Hang out with them, pet them, speak to them, move their toys around and play with them.

How long does it take to trust train rats?

It can take months before a rat is 100\% comfortable with you. Even rats that come from breeders that promise well socialized babies will need to trust you at their own pace. Keep in mind that these rats have never met you before, and as prey animals, they need to keep their guard up to feel safe.

How do you tell if a rat has feelings for you?

They no longer feel threatened by you being around them and will even come up to you when you come near them. Rats like most rodents can get scared easily. You’ll notice that after you’ve created a bond with them, they’ll be less likely to run every time they hear you coming.

How long does it take for a pet rat to adjust?

With some patience and compassion, you can easily handle your pet rat. Begin bonding with your rat 1-2 days after you first get it. Whether you bought your rat as a baby or you are adopting your rat an as adult, give it 1-2 days to adjust to its new home.

How old do you have to be to hold a rat?

If your rat is a pet for your child, always supervise the child when holding the rat. This way, you can ensure the child does not hurt the rat or handle it inappropriately. Children roughly 10 years old and younger should always be supervised with small animals. How do I pick up my rat without scaring it?

How to introduce a pet rat to a new pet?

Starting Preliminary Interactions Start with brief interactions without opening the cage. Teach the rat to take a treat. Give your rat 1 treat every time you open their cage. Allow the rat to sniff your hand. Start briefly petting the rat. Give a negative verbal response to bad interactions. Visit your rat throughout the day.

How many pet rats should I get?

If you are a first time owner too many rats will be hard work and limit how much you can get to know your rats. Between 2 and 4 rats are considered a good starting number though cage size and personal preference will often determined how many within this group.