KaylaB
New Member
I have owned a rat before, and had no trouble with him what so ever. He was a happy little chubby cuddle buddy When my girlfriend complained of being lonely (College, Work, usually home by herself) and wanting a pet, we began the search. Her father wouldn't allow her to have a cat or dog, I suggested she get a rat. I explained to her that they require just as much attention as a cat or dog and that they need human interaction, especially because she only wanted one. She thought about it for a while, and then decided she wanted one. So we went to the pet store and purchased a fairly young black and white hooded male rat. Not sure on the age at the time, so i don't know how old he is now. At the time he was fairly little, so she purchased a tank with the basic necessities and a wheel. I told her he would grow quickly and she would need to buy a bigger cage soon. Time went by, and Mr. Jingles (the rat) quickly grew into a large rat. I got suspicious and began asking my gf if she was spending the adequate time with him, she admitted that she was very busy and found it hard to give him the attention he needs. She never bought him a bigger cage either, he is in a ten gallon tank with a wire top She decided to give him to me because I can give him the attention he needs, and in about two weeks time i will have the funds available to purchase an adequate sized wire cage for him. My worry is socializing with him though. I think he is approaching about 8 months old now (rough estimate) and he has had limited human interaction. He has been fed properly and always has fresh water, but he is weary of people. Once I get a bigger cage for him, I plan on spoiling him with toys and giving him lots of attention. Do you have any advice or tips on how to make the move easier? And should I gradually increase the amount of time I spend with him each day, or should I just interact with him as I would with a well socialized rat? I know this is long, but I really need advice : ( Thank you!!