I have had her for about a week and she is as scared as can be. She isn't warming up to me at all she will come up to eat and play but as soon as she sees me or my husband she runs and hides. I also have a male rat that I've had for almost 8 months that i could hold right off the bat! I just don't under stand I've tried to hold her and talk to her but she just starts shaking and squeaking. Any one have tips for me?
2007-03-05 06:32:14 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
each animal is different. She might just be more shy/scared then your older rat. The only way to get her used to you is to gently hold her for a short time, give her treats to make the experience a good one. If she is super scared you could try picking her up when she is sleeping or just after she wakes up. she may be more accepting of you when she is a little groggy from sleep. Also remember not to make any sudden or fast movements around her. Talk in a soft gentle voice. She will come around eventually. Also bear in mind that female rats do not tend to be a social as males are. (this is not 100% the case just a 'usual' there is always exceptions)
2007-03-05 07:41:01 · answer #1 · answered by Katt 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
In my experience, female rats are a little more cautious than male rats. Give her a little more time. Is she in a room that you spend a lot of time in? Don't necessarily get too close to her, or try to pick her up at this point, but just be around, doing normal daily activities. Offer her treats slowly, to see if she will approach you. Good luck.
2007-03-05 15:00:13 · answer #2 · answered by erinn83bis 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
give her some time, put something that has your scent in there with her, like a well worn shirt, even your pillow case you sleep on every day.
Find a treat she loves and offer it to her, if she wont take just give her a day or two and try again. Rabbits are cautious little things. So just be gental with her and take it day by day and soon she wil realize you mean no harm to her and will enjoy spending time with you. Good luck
2007-03-05 14:41:04 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
she probably wasn't held before you got her. you'll have to be consistant with what you are doing. i put on a hoody and let my 6 week old rat run around on my shoulder when i first got him. she sees you as a preditor when you first pick her up. let her run over your hands arm and shoulders and she should warm up to you. i wouldn't recommend trying forced socialization.
2007-03-05 20:10:57 · answer #4 · answered by MommyCaleb 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋