LA said:
Thank you. I know I really have to wait the two weeks. She loves being out. I took her out last night and she was out for an hour sitting on my shoulder bruxing. How can you put a rat back in their cage when they are doing that.
I had the same problem with Basil. Since his quarantine cage was in the bedroom, I would let him run and play on the bed while I sat with him. It was always hard to put him back because he spent most of his "out" time cleaning any part of me that he could reach. (manicures anyone?
!!!)
I found that giving him treats, after putting him back in the cage, made me feel better. A yogurt covered raisin, fresh fruit, anything healthy and unsalted and unspiced from my leftovers did wonders in making the little man feel comfortable.
One thing I do remember from Debbie is that rats need 8 hours of complete darkness in each 24 hour period. Rats are also vulnerable to drafts so I have made it a habit to cover a portion of their cage with a bedsheet and a heavy towel. This kills two birds with one stone. It protects them from any drafts (i.e. air conditioning vents) and it prevents any lights from shining into the cage (i.e. kitchen stove clock/microwave clock/alarm system display panel, etc.).
Hang in there sweetie! If my Ben and Basil are any indications, Lily knows of your other rat(s) existences. My guys knew long before I "introduced" them! They have an awesome sense of smell and know that there is another rat in the house!
Lily needs the time and solitude to adjust to her new surroundings. She needs the chance to get to know you and your scent. You will play a pivotal role when it comes to "joining" them so it is vital that she knows and trusts you as the "head rat". My support of Basil helped Ben understand that Basil was a friend but it took Basil about a week to understand that I was on his side and not out to harm him.
It sounds like Lily has already bonded with you but the extra few days will not hurt her.
Somehow I have the feeling that quarantine is harder on us than it is on them!!!
You are doing the right thing and it will be "introduction time" before you know it!