Started Introductions - Day 1 failure !

[dspch911]

Well we started intros with our three big boys Kona, Bumbles, GMC and two from the trio Lovee and Jack. Took them to the bath tub and things we alright for about 5 minutes or maybe a bit longer. They sniffed each other and groomed a bit, but then it seemed Kona got too aggressive in his grooming of Lovee and it turned into a mini rat ball between them which I broke up with a towel toss. Then it happened again and turned into a big rat ball, their could of been another in the mix (not too sure, but don't think so) since we tossed a towel on them to break it up. That is when we called it quits - don't think the encounter lasted for more than 10 minutes. However, Kona ended up with a puncture wound - my poor Kona, he always seems to come out on the losing end. Should we try again tomorrow or wait a day or two?

 

[hopefloats]

I would try a different tatic that one isnt working, maybe add water to the tube and make them all scared... most rats dont like water, then I would put a box up there or something they can get on that will be dry.... when boys get naughty you have to change it up a bit.

 

[jorats]

I agree, try a different area or add a bit of water to the tub.

 

[tulipgirl]

What worked for me was bathing them all in the same wash, and then putting them in a cleaned tub, with nothing in it and smeared them with vanilla. I didn't think it would work but it did. What about filling the tub so all they can do is swim, and not walk?

 

[dspch911]

This was the first time any of them had ever seen the bath tub, but I will try the water. Their cages have been a foot apart for months.

 

[jorats]

Some rats aren't scared of tubs. Most of mine didn't mind it, that's why I never use it. I like a table top because it puts them up high and vulnerable.

 

[hopefloats]

and you can make a noise easier on a table or shake it a bit to switch up their attitude... some boys are just ballsy and wont be scared of anything they only see the end game.......an intruder LOL

have you switched them out in the cages? that might help or just move some items from ones cage to the other and so on. It is all about the smell making them get used to that strange rat smell and the strange rat. Boys can be very odd during intros.