How to Approach a Dumbo Rat That Bites

Most pet rats are docile and friendly. This is especially true of dumbo rats, a fancy rat variety. Fancy rats often don't experience the poor care and lack of handling that feeder rats encounter. However, a neglected or abused dumbo rat might bite out of fear. Some rats bite accidentally, mistaking your fingers for food. A rat that has not been handled much or at all doesn't know how to react to humans. Rats are intelligent though, so a rat that bites may well become accustomed to humans over time. Be careful approaching the rat to begin with. Rats have surprisingly strong jaws and can easily draw blood.

Things You'll Need

  • Work gloves
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Instructions

  1. Friendly Dumbo Rat

    • 1

      Make feeding and petting two separate activities if you have an otherwise friendly rat that sometimes bites. Cease feeding the rat by hand if this is something you or your children do. Rats sometimes become confused, and if they always associate fingers with food, they might bite, although not usually hard. Don't poke your fingers through the cage mesh either, for the same reason.

    • 2

      Let the rat wake up in its own time. Rats do not like being suddenly woken up from a sleep, and might bite as an automatic defense reaction.

    • 3

      Withdraw fingers rapidly if the rat bites, and walk away. The rat should learn that nipping ends a petting session. The rat might also take the hint from a scolding or hurt voice. Rats use sound to communicate with each other and your pet may understand that it hurt you.

    • 4

      Show children how to play nicely with the rat. If they are too rough or tease it, nipping is a natural reaction. Supervise young children with the rat until you are certain the children and the rat are safe together.

    Nervous Dumbo Rat

    • 5

      Spend time around the cage outside of feeding times. Talk quietly to the rat when it comes over to investigate.

    • 6

      Allow the rat to become used to your smell before handling. Place your hand in the cage, wearing a work glove if the rat bites hard, but don't pet the rat or try and pick it up. Let the rat approach you.

    • 7

      Pet the rat carefully once it has grown used to you. Stroke it on the back, avoiding the face. If the rat backs away, stop.

    • 8

      Pick the rat up with both hands once it has become completely comfortable with petting. Put it back in the cage after a few minutes. Gradually increase the time you hold the rat or allow it out for exercise.