Sudden biting/pulling and help to socialize

[kmkaeberlein]

Hey everyone, new here. I have posted in intros already

So this evening I noticed my one male biting and pulling at one of my females. I had introduced them and they've been getting along quite well until tonight. I have had the male for about a week tomorrow, and the females 2 days so far. Should I let them hash it out, or separate them? I got worried so I separated them because she didn't seem to be defending herself.

Also, how do you socialize/handle your rats when you first get them if they are not used to being too handled? If I could get step-by-step help that would be amazing. I've tried to use baby puffs and baby meats to coax them, but they still don't seem so trusting. How long should I keep doing this for? Should I try to get them out of the cage or allow them to come to me on their own, continuing to try the treats? Help please!

 

[Kye]

Are your rats nurtured and spayed.? If not don't let them interact.. You can try baby food and see if they like it but never try to force a rat out of the cage.. That will Most likely make them even less trusting ..

 

[Dena]

If your rats aren't fixed I'd seperate the male from the females IMMEDIATELY. He can get one or both pregnant. Are you prepared to care for, or find good homes for a bunch of babies? If you want to put the male with the females, then have a vet who knows rats, and is experienced at doing neuters on rats, to neuter him, then wait 3 weeks and try intros again. Www.joinrats.com has lots of helpful information on it, and www.ratguide.com has good info for health stuff. Welcome to the forums.