I recently bought 2 female rats.....?

Question

they are in their huge cage but they are hiding behind their wheel. Can i take it out and put it on my lap... or not yet? when should i?

Answer 1

Give them some time to adjust to their new home and in the mean time, put like a sock or some sort of item that has your scent in the cage so they get used to your smell and slowly start introducing yourself to them

Answer 2

all rats are shy at first, dont worry about it  

Answer 3

I usually give them a day or so to get used to their surroundings, after that you can start playing with them and cuddling them!

They're just scared, give them some time!.  :)

Answer 4

Good on you for getting two rats together and good on you for getting a big cage for them:)

All rats are a bit shy when you first get them. The key is to be patient.

Be patient and you will eventually bond with your rat.

You rats are probably not quite used to you and your smell yet. Give it some time but in the meantime show them that theres nothing to be scared of.

Never EVER grab your rat. It scares them and makes them less likely to trust you or warm up to you. Always be gentle.

Rats dont like sudden movements so do everything slowly so that they dont get scared. Slowly move your hand towards them and try to stroke them frequently and let them sniff you to get used to your smell. Don't try to touch them when sleeping though or they will get even more startled.

Once they get used to your hand and it's smell, they will come to your hand and you can gently try to pick them up and let them out (in a rat-proof area). Never get angry or frustrated if they run away because that will make them more frightened and distrust you.

Good luck:) I'm sure your rats will bond with you

Answer 5

If they are shy put your hand in the cage and allow them to sniff you and they will get used to your smell. then they can come out and get used to you more.

Well done getting more than 1 though. most people don't realize how important that is!

Answer 6

It depends on when you got them. You should give them a couple days to get used to their new surroundings. After they have settled a little bit, you should take it slow with your interaction with them. You may find they dont appreciate being taken out of their cage and set on your lap right away. Opening the cage and offering a treat will help to coax them out. Be patient and take your time to earn their trust. Rats are amazing pets.

Good luck.