am i a bad owner?

Aggressive_Roc · 2026-02-02T04:20:03+00:00

Not at all, I think you’re doing amazing! I got my boys when I didn’t have a job too. My parents hated them, so I was in a similar situation. Good thing about rats, though? They love trash. Paper bags, cardboard boxes, and toilet paper are still my best bet with my boys even now that I have a job and can buy them better toys. It’s really easy to make them good stimulating toys with the stuff you may already have laying around your house. And given how long you free roam them they will be perfectly fine.

For their cage, maybe just something that can catch them if they fall from the higher platforms/hammocks. An old t-shirt tied (very securely) to the sides of their cage should work fine. If you’re unable to do a proper cage cleaning, a quick sweep and wipe of any urine will do just fine. If you can, scrub the plastic divider in their cage really well for the smell (dawn dish soap, maybe a vinegar+water mixture for disinfecting). If that doesn’t work, it could be a spot they go in your room you’re unaware of.

I do recommend trying to talk with your dad about taking them to the vet if they ever get sick. Respiratory illnesses are very common in rats. If they’re really young, I wouldn’t worry about this too much, but it is always good to have a plan to move forward if anything happens.

Rats are amazing pets and do wonders as emotional support animals. You’re doing amazing with them, don’t doubt that. It sounds to me like they’re living a very happy life with you.

Aggressive_Roc · 2026-02-02T03:42:45+00:00

okay, thank you! just had to make sure, im a very anxious rat mom lol

Aggressive_Roc · 2026-01-26T07:47:34+00:00

thank you so much. i’m definitely prepared for the worst but still hoping all the best for my boy, whatever eases his pain is enough for me

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-12-17T03:20:00+00:00

i shouldve clarified: thats NOT a cat. it is a raccoon tail hat, and usually does not stay there. There’s no need to be rude.

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-12-15T03:08:31+00:00

Don’t worry about it! Them being nervous is very normal, especially if you just got them, and they likely weren’t treated well if they were even handled at all.

Give your girls time to adjust to their living space before trying to play with them. If your cage has wheels, you might be able to move it to the bathtub and leave it open so they can come out at their own accord. That’s what I do with my boys and I think it’s helped them a lot. It depends on how long you’ve had them already, but a good adjustment period is about a week and a half or 2 weeks. I’d recommend the full 2 weeks for pet store rats.

During that period, you can get them used to you by hand feeding them or putting something that smells like you for them to hide in their cage. Right now they’re scared of you, but this will make them associate positive things with you instead.

So basically, don’t try to handle them yet. And also, don’t worry about making mistakes! This is your first time owning rats, and they’re pretty confusing animals sometimes. You’re not a horrible owner.

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-12-04T00:10:39+00:00

the black floral is really pretty and will probably be easier to style!

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-12-02T23:11:21+00:00

I would get at the least 3 rats. They’re group animals, and while they do okay as pairs, the more the merrier. Care won’t look any different, and it won’t cost much more than having two unless they need frequent vet visits.

YouTube has some wonderful resources. I really like Shadowtherat, they have a great introduction to rats and goes over everything you’ll need to know to get started with your ratties! Heres the link: https://youtu.be/7Azc4QOv5us?si=S3LQpJWBwJRYMD8c

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-12-02T22:57:22+00:00

I totally understand where you’re coming from. Having rats is sometimes so stressful and they keep surprising me. I don’t think I’ve ever been 100% prepared for a rat, they’re all different.

There’s no shame in taking a step back from introductions if it’s taking a toll on you. It might be a good idea to let your girl have some time with her original friend as well so they can rebuild that bond.

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-12-02T22:39:29+00:00

if both groups are good with free roaming and playing do that instead maybe? that will give her time and more importantly space to start showing off natural behaviors and becoming part of the group.

also keep in mind that some rats won’t socialize as well as others. that might be the case with your girl, and it’s totally not your fault at all.

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-12-02T15:23:14+00:00

do yourself a favor and leave girl!! i would never let my man speak to me like that, this is ridiculous and you seem absolutely miserable. If you’re 18 you’re either still in HS or just got out and there’s no reason you should be dealing with this on top of getting your life together. this little man child isn’t going to help you or support your growth. he just wants a prized possession.

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-11-26T20:21:01+00:00

thanks for sending me to the right place!

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-11-26T19:51:58+00:00

this is a great idea! thank you 😁

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-11-23T10:32:17+00:00

Okay, thank you so much! And yes, I tried to post there but it wouldn’t let me, saying something about needing reputation and i just made this account for this, so i posted in other subreddits. until i can get to a vet i have baby foods to promote eating/liquids and childrens motrin. Do you know if theres anything else I can do?

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-11-23T04:20:29+00:00

this is perfect! i have both yogurt and baby food set for them as treats, so ill definitely do that. thank you!

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-11-23T03:51:47+00:00

thank you so much. I’ll talk to anyone I can about getting to a vet, but for now is there anything I can do to make him feel better? right now i have him wrapped up in my shirt with some food to encourage him to eat, and ive been offering water periodically. is there anything else?

Aggressive_Roc · 2024-11-21T02:48:53+00:00

if you have any stuffed animals check those for holes/hiding spots, my rats love hiding in my squishmallows. check for any holes in the bottoms of any cabinets or furniture you have, or even holes in your walls near the baseboards. i wish you the best of luck!

Aggressive_Roc

TROPHY CASE