How do you befriend two rats? - briefly
Offer each rat identical treats, handle them gently, and provide a shared safe enclosure to build trust. Consistent, calm interaction encourages mutual acceptance and companionship.
How do you befriend two rats? - in detail
Create a calm, secure enclosure before any interaction. Use a solid-bottom cage with bedding, hideouts, and chewable objects. Keep the temperature stable and avoid loud noises. Provide fresh water and a balanced diet of commercial rodent pellets supplemented with small amounts of fresh vegetables.
Introduce food gradually to associate the area with positive experiences. Offer treats by hand, starting with a single piece per rat and increasing frequency as the animals approach the hand. Observe body language; relaxed whiskers and slow breathing indicate comfort.
Begin gentle handling once the rats accept hand‑fed treats. Support the body with both hands, avoiding pressure on the spine. Short sessions of 30–60 seconds reduce stress. Increase duration incrementally, allowing the rodents to retreat to a hideout if they choose.
Maintain consistent routines. Feed, clean, and interact at the same times each day. Consistency reinforces trust and helps the pair develop a bond with the caretaker. Monitor health indicators such as coat condition, activity level, and appetite; any deviation may require veterinary assessment.
Document progress in a simple log: date, duration of handling, observed behaviors, and any adjustments made. This record supports systematic improvement and ensures both rats receive appropriate care while the relationship deepens.