My pet rat poops every time i take her out of the cage...

52% Normal
9 Comments

Now I understand this is normal in the beginning...But I've has her for 5 months now.

To be completely honest the time I spend with her can vary from week to week depending on my work schedule, but I assure you she is not neglected. I do make time for her. She has no problem what so ever with me petting her in the cage. When I open the cage door she will usually run up and poke her head out. But she still will not let me hold her without pooping on me. I've even tried letting her roam around in closed off areas like the bathroom, but still I end up having to put her back in the cage because of the surprising amount of pooping she will do on the floor, in the sink, etc. No matter what I do she will just keep pooping anytime she's out of the cage. (And frankly I'm always a little amazed how much poop such a tiny creature can have in her...)

But seriously... Is it normal that after 5 months she's still always this nervous out of the cage? Will she never get over it? I don't want to keep freaking her out, but I don't want her to get bored cooped up in her cage all the time...

Voting Results
52% Normal
Based on 56 votes (29 yes)
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Comments ( 9 )
  • sunisshining
    12 years ago

    I've had 5 pet rats-even one with down syndrome-but none have ever experienced this after 5 months. I suggest asking a vet's opinion, because although it does not seem unhealthy, it does seem inconvenient. Or you could designate an area that is easy to clean up and play with her for under 10 minutes at a time. It could be a sign of anxiety, if she is the only rat she may be suffering because rats are such social creatures that require friends. If you're willing, it may also help to get your rat a friend (of the same gender, of course!) hope this helps, good luck rat parenting!

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  • Kelly1234
    12 years ago

    Eww !! Who would even want a rat as a pet ?? Thats soo gross

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  • Nahtangnouv
    12 years ago

    SQUEEZE DAH POOP OUTTA IT SQUEEZE~~~

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  • dinz
    12 years ago

    One of the reasons animals poop when they are handle by their owners is a sign of being scared.

    Make sure you are handling your rat with care.

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  • Sidekickz
    12 years ago

    dont scweeze sow hard.
    dunno how 2 write scweeze

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    • Donteatme
      12 years ago

      Squeeze. Your welcome.

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    • MrSnippy
      12 years ago

      it looks like you don't know how to write at all

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      • Sidekickz
        12 years ago

        That, sir, was fully on purpose

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  • theonewiththehair
    12 years ago

    I probably should have mentioned in my post that comments would be more helpful than mere voting. Advice anyone? I've had dogs and cats before, but this is my first rat...

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