Bored rats

[sam86]

ive recently just got 2 male rats. Although i've bought them a big cage they are really bored. I get them out every day but they still seem bored. is there any toys or something that can keep them amused?

[Kishimo]

My advice to you would be to make sure they have something to chew on (e.g a loo roll tube), a wheel (which most cages come with anyway), and plenty of bedding.  The reason for having the bedding is that some rats have an obsession with sorting out their cages.  Mine used to spend hours getting its sawdust into a particular place.

Also, what do you let them do when you get them out?  Rats like a lot of space so letting them run around a room on their own accord is best, although, if you have wires/curtains you don't want to be destroyed that might not be the best idea. 

Good luck =D

[sam86]

they have plenty bedding and lots to chew including my new coat! i let them run around the sitting room but when i let them go they wont leave me they just stay next to me or hide in my jumper!

[Kishimo]

Aww they sound cute!!!  Just another thing I've thought of...I'm not sure if it will work, but my rat used to love those little toy mice you usually give to cats.  And also you can hide treats around your sitting room for them to find.

[PurplePixie]

I always change the toys on offer in the cage, almost every day...keeps them on their toes & they never seem bored.

I use toilet roll middles (give them a whole loo roll, that's pretty funny!) , cereal boxes, anything that is safe to chew & build interesting shapes for them to climb into & wreck. Apple tree branches are also safe for them to climb & chew. Tape together using masking tape...not sure how safe sellotape is.

Try putting a shallow bowl of water down for them to explore while they are out of the cage (with easy access in and out) & some enjoy a little dip.

[sam86]

Thanks ill try all of them, not too sure on the whole loo roll, my rats like to make alot of mess!

[cranberry85]

it is quite common for male rats to be lazy. it is the female rats who are a lot more active. im quite sure that they are not bored. if they were bored they may move around a lot more looking for things to do. also, with age male rats become even more lazy. let me know if this helps x