2 weeks ago i posted a thread on tips for Rat proofing my room, basically i felt guilty for never letting them out their cage on fear they would escape or chew threw cables.

Well, i Rat proofed the room as best i could, stuffing old clothes and towels around the Sofa's so they couldn't get under!
I couldn't cover any cables BUT the girls are being as good as gold so far!! im letting them out for an hour a day split into to sessions of 30mins and im constantly supervising them!

Now and again 1 will try and dig her way into a corner to try and get under the Sofa, so i grab her lightly and say NO!, is this the right way to teach them? It seems to be working a little.

Basically, im happy and Rats are alot happier and friendlier since ive been letting them out, i can really tell a difference in their behaviour.

Peace guys x

that's fantastic. well done for doing the right thing and making your rats' lives better.

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I totally agree that they need out of cage time, luckily our bathroom is quite large so I let them in there for an hour a day. They love to crawl up the baskets and soap stands e.t.c I was thinking about rat proofing the bedroom but they'd get under the bed and it would be a nightmare. I don't take them downstairs as my dog loves anything furry that can run fast lol

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The Boys - Alfie, Marley, Jenson & Lewis - Dumbo Rats
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YEP, keep at it, repetative and consistent teaching will quickly be picked up. she'll still do it occassionally as it's an in-built desire, can do the same if they nibble wires.

if just picking up and no'ing doesn't work try flipping whoever onto their back, sharp NO and letting them 'struggle' out of your relaxed hand (technique used by alpha rats )

they will get much better the more you let them out, they'll be more likely to come to you if they escape too cos they'll be so pleased to show you what they've done! imbiciles but helpful ones lol.

they'll also be happier cos they'r getting lots of mental stimulation as well as physical, so remember and get them toys for just play time and rotate them every couple of days or so so they don't get bored.

you can always teach them commands and tricks too

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