Why are my pet rats so scared of everything?

I have two girl rats [one's technically my brothers], and they've been good so far. We each hold ours daily, they seem to get along and we like them pretty much. But EVERY time we take them out of their cage, they run into the nearest place to hid, or try to jump back into the cage. They're just so annoying. It's been around three weeks and every time they continue to do this. Not even treats will get them to stop. Why, and what can I do?Why are my pet rats so scared of everything?
You need more patience. Don't get annoyed so easily by their fear.





Rats aren't very confident at first, and some take longer than others to build up their confidence.





Rat-proof a small room (like a bathroom), and sit in there with the rats. Don't worry if they hide for a bit. Just grab a book, and read (even out loud!) and let them come and inspect you, and realize you are absolutely harmless to them.





I've had my male, Willard, for about 1 1/2 months, and he's still a bit jumpy. That is fine with me, and I provide a carrier with a Chube that he can hide in, if anything startles him. I let him do things on his terms, and he has become VERY affectionate.





Just be patient, and wait it out. They'll come around. :)Why are my pet rats so scared of everything?
it's not working.


i'm going on two months.


your advice did nothingggg.

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Some rats, especially those bought from pet stores, are not properly socialized and will take a bit longer to become tame. Keep doing what you are doing and it will eventually work, but three weeks is not long enough for drastic improvement for a shy rat. It may take several months before they are 'normal'. Go slow, don't force your rat to be handled, and continue to offer treats and eventually they will come around.





Carrying them around in the pocket of a hoodie is a good way to socialize a shy rat, as they are hidden and feel safe but they are still with you and you can reach in and pet them or offer them a treat occasionally. I do this with all of my rats, especially litters of babies, as it is a safe way to socialize. If they are afraid and jump out, make sure that you don't stand up or sit on anything you don't want them falling on.





For more information on rat care please visit my website at http://careguide.evergreenrattery.com or feel free to email or IM me with rat questions. Good luck with your rats!
My rats do that too.


Sometimes it's just beacause you scared them when you grabbed them to play.


Do you Wash your hands before you hold them? Sometimes if you pet another animal before holdig your rat, them the smell will scare them.


~Ratpal~
You need more patience Don't get annoyed so easily by their fear.