How much handling do my rats need?

Question

I bought two female rats about four months ago, a dumbo hairless and a fancy rat.

They are very well fed, clean, and have a huge cage.

Due to recent circumstances, I've only been handling them and playing with them for about 5 minutes a day. Am I causing them harm? Are there any toys I can make or things I can do so they don't spend 22 hours a day sleeping due to boredom?

Answer 1

its good to handle them at least every day so they get to know you, but handling them too much will make them irritated; it also depends on whether they like being handled or not; all rats differ

Answer 2

If you have them together in the same cage, they will at least be able to keep eachother company. Try buying them a wheel, some tubes, wooden blocks, and make sure there is enough food and water for the both of them. Boredom isn't very good for any type of animal because they will typically become depressed and that eventually leads to poor health and death. If the rats are friendly, gently handle them as much as you can, and if they aren't friendly, you need to tame them. Rats don't take long to tame though since they are naturally friendly and trusting.

Answer 3

Well most everyone is right about their answers that they gave you. My best friend owns and shows rats (actually about 50 of them total so far). Now of course she obviously cannot play with each and every one of them but she will take them out occasionally (once a week for about a half hour). As long as you have a wheel, some play toys (you can get them at any pet store), and chew toys. Don't worry. You won't kill them by playing with them so little. Just make sure you do have them out at least once a week for a half hour. Also another fun idea is to buy a rat ball. They love to roll around in those things. Plus, you do not have to really stay and watch them (just check in on them once in a while). I hope this helps you. Good luck :)

Answer 4

if your rats have plenty of toys with them theres no really need to handle them since they will be entertained in them. but for baby rats they do need handling for about 10 minutes a day also rats need company so play with them every once in a while. you can make toys by simply things like tennis balls or a little bit of sand for them to roll on which will clean their fur they will definitely love that.

Answer 5

Young rats are usually quite skittish to humans, in my experience. Once they're adults, you'll be able to get them out all the time regardless of your relationship with them. However, for right now, try to lure them to the top of the cage with a treat, then pet them. If they are receptive to your petting, cup your hand underneath one and lift it up, holding it on your chest (make sure you have a good grip without hurting him/her, because they tend to run away at this age). Rats are social animals, and require very little time to bond with you, though young rats will constantly want to explore and run around.

Answer 6

When I had couple rats like you do (they keep each other company) I played (handled) them less. When I had single rats I took them out more often...climbed on me while I worked at the computer, etc. As a result, we were closer. One pair was kinda sad becuase the bigger one 'looked out' for the smaller one and when she died, the other missed her and was kinda scared of me. What's my advice? Do the best you can and play as much as you can without feeling like you have to! Have fun & enjoy!

Answer 7

DONT buy a rat ball. Rats are terrified of being in an unstabled area. And they will be very hot in there. So a hot terrified rat will not do good in a small ball actually made for hamsters will small ventilation holes. Stick with rat wheels. Try this website its great! http://www.dapper.com.au/toys.htm

Answer 8

rats love to held and play'd with but if you don't have the time right now try getting them a wheel for in the cage and a rat ball for running around the house in when your home but too busy to stop and "play". it doesn't hurt to try giving them a toilet paper roll (used) to chew on, it will help their teeth and give them something to do intead of sleep.

Answer 9

You might want to give them a bit more attention, say, half and hour a day, if your schedule allows. If not, grab a few minutes here and there to cuddle and treat them. They'll play with each other. You're not causing them any harm at all. I love dumbos. :)

Answer 10

Yes, they should be handled regulary as this will help keep them tamed and to know you. There are toys you can get for them or try ferret toys. They make wonderful little pets and are intelligent. Good luck!!

Answer 11

yes you should at east spend 30 mins a day with them or out of their cage buy some plastic balls or something to entertain them i let my rats run on my bed and i put them on low branches of trees in my yard and they enjoy it very much they also like fresh air but dont expose them to sun that shines directly on them because it can kill then....good luck!

Answer 12

You're still fine with the amount of attention they are getting. If it is far less than they normally get, don't keep that up too long.

Answer 13

you should think about getting some toys and something for them to chew on like a paper towel roll or something but u arnt causing them any harm taking them out that is good but i would take them out some more like 30 min. a day or something like that and let them run around a room to get them excise....... :)

Answer 14

I have 2 male teddy bear hamsters...and I love on them every day....they look forward to it...but it is because they are use to it....but at least you are paying attention to them some a day....its not good to ignore them day after day...they need love just like any other animal....as far as not wanting them to get bored...these animals sleep all day all the time....and they are up all night....or mine are....

Answer 15

Well boredom will eventually kill them. Buy them a wheel to run on or some toys they can chew on. Try playing with them more, boredom and lack of exercise will most probably kill them.

Answer 16

go to (www.petratscanada.com) there are some good and fun toy ideas there. and u should play with them every day for about 20-30 min.

Answer 17

about an hour each. just put them up on your shoulder or in your sweater when you are home with them. hold them when you are cooking. one of my boys likes to be bathed and would love it if i would take him with me for a tub or shower but i'm to afraid to. let them roam around while you are sitting.