I'm currently in a class where we're working with rats. We're encouraged to take them home at the end of the quarter. I'm torn between two rats. One is fairly active, but seems to be nice. Another, however, is extremely docile, and doesn't even squirm or try to jump when he's being held. I really want to take this one home, but I'm almost worried his behavior is abnormal. None of the other rats will sit still for anything. Is this guy a real gem or not?
2007-02-23 05:54:31 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
Also wanted to ask: Should I keep my rat away my cats? I'm not worried about them hurting it, but I'm afraid he'd pass on disease. What kind of shots do my cats absolutely need, if any?
The rat(s) I'm bringing home are lab rats, if that makes any difference.
2007-02-23 06:19:08 · update #1
a docile male is generally a mature male. my five month old male is like that he's a total lap rat. we have cats and only one of them is interested in my rats. you'll just have to pull out a squirt bottle and squirt them every time they go to the cage. they will eventually learn that that is your rat not something to be played with. if your cats don't bring you home dead animals as presents then they usually don't take an intrest when you bring a rodent home. make sure you have lots of toys for him to play with and maybe get him another male to be with since thye are social animals and unless you can spend TONS of time with him he'll need company. any questions you can e-mail me.
2007-02-23 11:23:48 · answer #1 · answered by MommyCaleb 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would definately say if possible take both, rats are really social, if you can only have one make sure you give him lots of love and attention. Males rats tend to get more docile as they get older, but they are like people they each have their own personality, if your just going to take one, then take the one you get on better with.
I dont have cats but a friend has both a cat and 2 rats and says that the cat was really interested in the rats for the first week and now doesnt bother them at all. i shouldnt thinka rat would have any disease it would give to a cat but im not 100% as like i said i dont have cats.
hope that helps
2007-02-24 06:15:35 · answer #2 · answered by skenterly 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My cats typically leave my rats alone. They are naturally curious but as long as the cage is secure, I am not concerned. I have had really docile rats in the past but right now I have two that really don't like to be held much and they are skiddish. It isn't as much fun for me when they are so timid. A docile rat is not unusual but always a gem.
2007-02-23 06:52:37 · answer #3 · answered by petsopets 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Some rats are more like that. Sounds like a gem
Why not take both? Rats are social animals that should be kept in pairs or more.
2007-02-23 05:56:46 · answer #4 · answered by allyalexmch 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Take them both if you can. Rats are social and need their buddies around.
My boys are extremely friendly and they like to snuggle up and sleep, I guess that can be called docile.
No clue about cats, I have never owned one.
2007-02-23 08:35:49 · answer #5 · answered by ? 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Take him, I had 2 pet rats they were both like that, in fact one used to sleep in my pocket :) Rats are sooo much fun, I used to make mine race eachother...
Have fun
2007-02-23 05:57:55 · answer #6 · answered by Jules 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ask if you can take both. If not then take the one that is calm.
2007-02-23 06:03:51 · answer #7 · answered by thmtom 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋