Things You'll Need:
- Rat.
- Treats.
- Toys.
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Step 1
Remember your new rat may need awhile to get comfortable with you. As you learn about each other and get to know each other you will find out how your rat likes to play best.
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Step 2
Begin by giving your rat a treat. This is a good way to help your rat get comfortable. Don't be surprised if your rat wants to take his or her treat back home instead of staying out to play. Home is safe and eating is a time a vulnerability. Give it time. Let your rat go home and finish his or her treat.
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Step 3
Start by petting and talking to your rat. Most rats will get comfortable with their space and want to explore or play with toys and with you.
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Step 4
Sit on the couch and begin by letting the rat explore you. This can be fun for both of you as the rat runs up and down and around your body.
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Step 5
In the beginning keep outings fairly short to reduce stress and provide a treat on sending the rat home.
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Step 6
Toys and other objects can be a lot of fun to play with rats with. You can bring these objects into your space or place them on the table to play with the rat with.
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Step 7
Another option is hide and seek or "I am going to get you!" games. This is simple. You can use a small towel to cover up the rat and then make a big deal about the rat being missing. "Where is Cocoa!?" "Where did he go!" and so on. Or let your rat run down your body and say, "I am going to get you, Cocoa!" and then scoop the rat up and love on it. Over time your rat will learn these games and enjoy them in the same way a young child does.
