Is it normal for a rat to jump out of your hand?

Question

Is it normal for a rat to jump out of your hand?

Answer 1

My rats sometimes do. Maybe your just trying to move too quickly, if they kinda duck down and hold still when you reach for them, they aren't ready to be held. Try offering them treats from your hands first, they'll become more comfortable with that then. Just take your time =). Some rats though never get over it, I have 2 rats and I've had them for about 5 months and I still can't hold one of them. She even cries when my hand gets close.

Answer 2

If it is a terrified rat, certainly. When cautious, rats prefer to stay quiet and hide. But if they cannot do this, as a last resort, they will jump, bite and even scream.

Perhaps you are going to fast with the taming process. You should give them a week without any handling for them to get used to their new home. When you handle them, make sure they are calm and curious.

If they are frozen or not moving, leave them alone, they are camoflauging and not ready to be played with. These are the times they will get desperate enough to jump.