My new rats bite when I pet them. How can I tame them effectively?

The best thing is to just provide a safe and quiet environment for them until the get more used to their new surroundings. With time, she will become more comfortable. Make sure to also provide a nutritious diet and fresh water to keep her immune system healthy.

Thanks for reaching out about Cream. Sounds as if she is cage protective. Spaying her might calm her down. Continue to work with her, allow her to come out of the cage on her own and then handling. Hopefully this will allow her to acclimate to your presence. Good luck.

I would recommend giving rose more time. It can take weeks for them to warm up to people. I recommend making sure you have a safe, stress free environment to help allow Rose to relax and be less stressed. Also, I would try to find a treat that Rose really loves and only you give her. This way she gets excited to interact with you.

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Young rats tend to be very playful and active, so they may be more wriggly while being picked up. I recommend moving slowly while trying to socialize your rats - first letting them get used to your hand being in the cage, then giving them treats, and then trying to pick them up for short periods of time. If you believe that your rats do not want to be picked up because they are painful, I recommend having them seen by a vet. I hope this helps and that all is well!

Thanks for reaching out about Leo. De-sensitizaiton is the key. Trying to get him to climb onto your, encouraging with treats. Keep all movements slow, interaction times should start short. Good luck.

Congratulations on your new hamster. I am linking an article here which gives an in depth discussion on methods to try to tame your hamster: http://www.yourpethamster.com/care/taming The key is having patience and persistence. Working at this several times a day and taking it slow to build up your hamster's trust in you. Best of luck to you and Charlie!

Be patient. Allow him to acclimate to you gradually. Start by simply sitting next to his cage for ever increasing periods of time. Move slowly and talk softly around him. Progress to placing your hand in the cage, again for ever increasing periods of time, until he gets used to you. Wash your hands thoroughly before to remove all scents of food or treats. End each session with a small treat or reward. Do not attempt to hold him or force him to do anything. If he is curious about your hand in the cage, let him smell you and crawl on you. If he nips or bites, take your hand away and try again after he settles down. He will soon begin to realize you are the one providing food, water, toys and treats and then will begin to respond to your presence.