Rat- popping, bouncing, hiccuping movements

Question

Hi, in the past, I've had two female rats, but since they passed away from old age, I've purchased a male rat. From what i have experienced int he last 6 months or so, males are quite different to females with all the scent marking etc and also that they are a bit more placid and shy. hes become really friendly because all of my family associate with him and he gets a lot of attention.

When I hold/spend time with him, he is really happy, he chatters constantly and grooms, nibbles my hands, and sometimes he does this really odd thing where he makes this sort of abrupt popping or bouncing movement, its sort of like hiccuping constantly, except with his entire body (exclu. tail) and with no sounds etc. He seems to do it when I'm patting/scratching him and hes happy. He does it every now and then and only for a few minutes and then he stops. Hes definitely not in pain or upset (I study Vet nursing), I just want to know why and how he does this?

Thanks in advance

Answer 1

Rats can laugh when you tickle them in the right spot! you cant hear it properly but you can some times see them move as the do.

Answer 2

That would be ''popcorning''. They often do it when they're on the ground, and very happy. They will bounce around like popcorn. :P