Intro still iffy: I feel like a meanie

[Godmother]

Molly has been living with the others for over a day. Everything in the cage was neutral. The poor thing has been hiding behind a litter box in the corner for much of the time. Most of the others will sniff her over (she squeaks as if they were power grooming her), although Stella chases her around the cage (maybe the Bromocriptine is working too well?). I've given Stella a couple of time-outs, but it doesn't seem to help.

I felt really awful tonight at out time. Molly managed to climb up to her former cage, and she squeaked piteously when I pulled her away. She did not want to go back to her new quarters.

No blood, no boxing, no hissing, not even any power grooming-- so I have no reason to take Molly out. But I really feel mean leaving her in there, knowing that she is scared.

 

[hopefloats]

I have a few rats that act that way some still hide for no reason. They need to adjust and learn. mine always stop after a while. I had a few boys who screamed for weeks but in the end it stopped and they learned to cuddle.

 

[SQ]

Poor Molly ..... but in the long run she will be much happier ....
Glad Evie stopped pulling out her hair
You will have to give Molly some extra snuggles

 

[missnikki]

Just give her time - she will come around. Maybe give her a lil extra one on one time with you so she knows you are there to protect her!

 

[Godmother]

Yes, we are giving her lots of support. She is obviously on guard, though. This morning I noticed that she has barricaded herself behind the litter box with her own stash of lab blocks! When I put the porridge dish on her side of the cage, I noticed that the others were a bit hesitant to approach.

 

[jorats]

How old is Molly?

 

[Godmother]

Molly was two years old on February 1st. I had hoped that she would be a companion to Rilla (same age), but Rilla died much sooner than I had expected and then Molly had to go in with the others. Stella is a similar age, but the others are only seven months old.

ETA: Uh-oh, just heard some loud squeaking, so I'd better go investigate....

 

[jorats]

Molly might be feeling odd man out. I'd give her a bit more time to settle in.

 

[SQ]

Or get another rat or 2 so she will not be the only newcomer LOL