What are my rats doing? Grooming me?

Question

I've had my 2 female rats, Maisy and Shawn, for about 4 or 5 weeks. If I or anyone else in my family put their hand in front of them, they gently hold your finger and chew on our nails, then tips of our fingers, then they start l*****g us! What are they doing? Are they grooming us? I really hope they are! well, right now I am going to take them out for 1 1/2 hours, then I will read some of the answers. Thanks in advance!!!

♥Amanda

*rattie lover*

Answer 1

Fingernail chewing and l*****g a common behavior that pet rats show toward their owners.  It is probably submission.  This is a good thing!  Your rats are saying that they know humans rule.  They may also be asking for some extra-nice treats since they are such "good" rats (they're very intelligent, after all).  

Be sure to wash your hands after (this holds with dog, cat and human licks too).  

Answer 2

Sounds like it. Which means they are being very affectionate - a very good sign! =)

They consider you part of the group - rats will mutually groom each other to develop a stronger bond and to clean areas a rat can't otherwise reach.