My rats are kinda still scared of me

My rats have begun to come out of their box hide away and take more treats farther from the hideaway from me. Which is great! However, they run directly back into the hide out to eat and possibly store their snacks. Is there any way I can get them to like being out of their hide away more? Should I take out their box hide aways and put some more but smaller ones in place of it?

How old are they and how long have you had them? Do you take them out of their cage for some play time with you?

I've had them for now a month(they're about 4-5 months old) and have tried to take them out and play with them but I read that you shouldn't move their surroundings around too much and they don't like playing and coming out of their hide aways unless the lights off and they know I'm going to sleep.

koboldbumblebee said:

I've had them for now a month(they're about 4-5 months old) and have tried to take them out and play with them but I read that you shouldn't move their surroundings around too much and they don't like playing and coming out of their hide aways unless the lights off and they know I'm going to sleep.

Click to expand...

I don't know where you read that, it certainly does not apply to pet rats. It's true that each rat is unique in their personality but it's been my experience (over 300 rats) they mostly enjoy human interactions. Rats need to have an out time, a play time. Have a huge area where you can take out your rats and let them explore, run, jump...fill that space with empty boxes, tissues, fleece, hide in treats, hang cheerios on a string. Rats are so intelligent they really do need lots of mental and physical stimulation. Make sure to rat proof that play area! They will chew on cords.