Rats!

Behaviour and Living

Will rats fight each other?
I have no experience of male rats, so can't speak for them, but females will fight. Usually this happens between the alpha and her depute as they jostle each other for dominance, especially if the alpha is getting on a bit and the deputy senses their time for the crown is coming!

Usually the fights are no more than posturing, but nips will happen from time to time. Not every time you hear an 'eeeeeek!' from one of your rats is the result of a nip. Often this is a warning noise when another rat is stepping out of line.

Sometimes the alpha can bully those beneath her, but she should do this less and less as time goes on and she is satisfied they are properly in line!

How long will they live?
If you get too attached to animals, rats may not be for you... they only live anything between 2 to 3 years, and it is very sad to wake up one day and find the wee creature you have gotten to know with all their affection and character has gone.

Can they be let out their cage?
Oh yes! They love exploring both you and your home! But make sure it is safe for them, that they cannot get near cables or anything else dangerous they make chew on and never leave them unsupervised if you cannot remove cables or other dangers.

What if they go inside some furniture, like an armchair and won't come out?
Let them be. Very soon they'll get hungry and want to get at their food! Depending on the character of your rat, they may even do the opposite of what you want! This is true of my current alpha - she does things in her own time.

Do they like to be handled?
In the main, yes. Depending on their character (and rats can have wildly different personalities) they are either happy to run about your shoulders, or indeed, inside your clothing. Some don't like too much handling, others thrive on it. You will learn yourself the degree of contact they want. It is important that you handle them from the minute you take them home, so they know your hands are friendly and your intentions benign.