Hi! I've had my two girls for about a week and a half, and I've been working on bonding with them but I don't know if I'm doing it right. They're the first rats I've ever had so I'm probably overreacting, but I wondered if you had any advice? Thanks!
Well, I’m definitely no expert, but there are a few things I can tell you. First off, and this is probably obvious, but take it slow, especially if your girls weren’t hand-raised. Food works wonders. They’ll probably use their teeth when getting to know you - try not to flinch! As long as they don’t draw blood, then it’s good biting. Ear rubs are a good thing. Food works wond- wait, did I say that already? Well, it’s true.
Don’t know how much that helps; mostly just take it slow and don’t force it. Some rats cuddle right away, some don’t; my first rat nuzzled my neck in the pet store, but I’ve also had a few that would take an ear rub but would never want to be picked up.
If anyone else who has more experience/success than I do has any more advice, feel free to add it.