About Jess Expertise I can answer questions about most species of rodents. I will answer any questions about health, husbandry and welfare. I can also give advise about behaviour problems, how to overcome these and ways of enriching the life of your pet. I can help with those wanting advice about house rabbits.
Experience I have experience with rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, gerbils, hamsters and chincillas.
Education/Credentials I am qualified in animal management, I work as a veterinary nurse.
Expert: Jess Date: 11/19/2006 Subject: my rat has a new bad aditude
Question I have a rat that I' have since he was a baby he's now about two years old. He has always been very sweet, but we moved about 7 months ago, and since then he has become very aggressive. I thought that he would calm down once we were all settled in, but he gotten worse. What I can I do to calm him down? please help.
Answer Is he a lone rat? Rats that live on their own often develop behavioural problems due to boredom and being lonely. Those in groups dont really tend to. It does sound like he needs neutered and I think thats possibly the only thing that could help. Though his age is something that would have to be considered. If he did get neutered it would be a good idea to try to introduce him slowly to a friend. If not then he kind of faces a lonely life as no one will really want to handle him since hes so aggressive. Good luck
