How to Give a Rat a Massage

Everyone loves a massage, even a rat. Massages can calm riled-up rodents or simply show them how much you adore them. Since it’s safer and cleaner, you may prefer to perform this loving touch procedure on a pet rat rather than one found in skulking through the sewers. In either case, all you need is a light touch and few simple steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Rat, preferably domesticated
• Light touch
• Cooing noises (optional)

1. Sit down with the rat lovingly supported in one palm with your hand in your lap.
2. Using the thumb and middle finger of the hand not underneath the rat, begin to gently rub his temples.
3. Slowly and lightly move your thumb and middle finger in circular motions, moving behind the rat’s ears, his neck and along his spine.
4. Polish off the massage by cupping your available hand over the rat’s back in a graceful and loving gesture.

Tips & Warnings

• If the rat begins to grind his teeth, wash his face or make clicking noises that means he likes what you’re doing.
• If he bites you, that means he does not.
• Do not apply too much pressure. Rats are little even if they’re tough.
• Don't force a massage on a rat. You'll know if he's simply not interested and you should leave him alone to eat cheese or something.