How do I train my rats to return to their cage after playtime?

The biggest thing you can do is spend time with them. Rats are very smart and they enjoy time with their humans. They can be trained to do many tricks. They like to climb. Offer them a variety of play things (from tubes, to a sand box to a climbing area) and switch things from time to time. Here is also a link which may help: https://www.petcoach.co/article/toys-and-other-environmental-enrichment-for-rats-and-mice/ Please feel free to post any additional questions.

First, you should have her examined by your veterinarian to rule out illness or injury. Second, feed a healthy diet of a block or pelleted diet for rodents supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables. Provide plenty of chewing toys to keep her teeth trim. Once all this has been done, you can use positive reinforcement (treats and praise) to get her to answer to her name or perform tricks. It will take patience and consistency. http://ratguide.com/care/behavior/training_playtime.php

Try encouraging your guinea pigs to play with interactive toys, give them things to chew on, and offer them treats, like baby carrots, when they are out of their cage. This will help them associate being out of the cage with something positive. You may also want to try taking them to a different room from the one the cage is in. This may make them more curious and more likely to want to explore instead of them wanting to go back in the cage. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck.

Positive reinforcement is the key. Give her a treat when she comes to you and at the same time call her name. Try to do it for 10-15minutes a day. Then gradually you can try not to give her the treat anymore. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. Please find the time to give us a feedback about the consultation as that will be used to improve our service.

I would just recommend continuing to work the rats as your are. Giving them special treats every time you interact with them and interacting with them on a regular basis will help them become more used to you. It may take up to 3 months for them to become completely comfortable with you. Don’t worry, you are doing everything right, this just takes time. Rats are usually very interactive and affectionate pets. You will get there soon!

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.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Frankie. What a tough little girl! She has been through a lot. I would start by always moving very slowly around her. Offer treats to help build her trust. Be sure to keep the dog away from her cage. Speak slowly and softly to her. Do not handle her until she seems more confident with you. I hope this information helps!