Scratching.

[jack_williams]

Hi there my fancy rat bolt age 2 has started scratching on the floor when he is running about out of his cage. Is there any reason for that? Also he's become quite aggressive the past 6 months or so. After I had to seperate him and his brother due to an injury that his brother had. His brother has now past away since. (roughly about 2 months ago) any advice would be appreciated.

 

[dspch911]

Sounds like he's scent marking his terroritory

 

[jack_williams]

He does the same with me. Well he rubs himself up against me etc. Why has he become so aggressive though?

 

[Claireybell2477]

That sounds like hormonal behaviour, but I didn't know a rat could suddenly experience hormonal behavior at 2 years old, I've only experienced it in younger rats myself.

Does he live alone or does he have a buddy since his last cage mate passed away?

 

[jorats]

This usually happens at about a year old, not 2. At 2, I would be worried that there might be something neuro going on. You could try trust training. joinrats.com is a great site and has wonderful tips on how to work with aggressive rats.