[eugakico]

I brought home 2 young rats from Petco a few days ago. They've acclimated well to the mischief but, expectedly, are still skittish and getting used to handling. I'm assuming this is why they're nippy with me (not aggressive), but was wondering if they're like cats--? I've had a cat who suckled because she was taken off the teat too soon.

 

[Ratty_123]

I brought home 2 young rats from Petco a few days ago. They've acclimated well to the mischief but, expectedly, are still skittish and getting used to handling. I'm assuming this is why they're nippy with me (not aggressive), but was wondering if they're like cats--? I've had a cat who suckled because she was taken off the teat too soon.

You can put a liquid treat such as meat baby food, applesauce, or yogurt on a metal spoon and when the rat bites the spoon, it’ll realize that it hurts. You can do it a few times a day! 💛

 

[SonicRat]

If they are chomping your fingers but not hurting they are just exploring and playing.If they nip to hard squeak and them and pull your hand away to let them know .

 

[eugakico]

If they are chomping your fingers but not hurting they are just exploring and playing.If they nip to hard squeak and them and pull your hand away to let them know .

Thanks! I'll try this and then use Ratty_123 's method if there's no success

 

[thecrazykidlady]

Thanks! I'll try this and then use Ratty_123 's method if there's no success

Spoon feeding is the best way to redirect their mouthing behavior to licking. It is also a great way to get them used to eating off a spoon in case they ever need medicine. I always recommend that my adopters spoon feed even if they don't have to for any other reason than it is good for them to learn.

Baby rats are a lot like baby humans - everything goes in their mouth. They will put their teeth on new things to find out about it. The younger they are, the more they do it.

Holding your rats as much as possible is the best way to bond. You should spend 3 hours or more a day with them and be away from the cage when you do it.

 

[Cheesefather]

Thanks! I'll try this and then use Ratty_123 's method if there's no success

Yep, as long as there's no blood, you're all good!