Rats are very social creatures. That is the very reason why rats make such great pets. There are two different types of socialization that rats require. Rats need a structured community with other rats. They have defined social structures within each living space. Rats are not solitary animals. They groom each other, eat with each other and sleep with each other. There will always be a "pecking order." Normal sniffing, chasing and communication is ok. Any serious confrontation would need addressed quickly.

The other type of socialization that rats need is time spent with humans. Any pet rat once socialized properly will truly enjoy their "people time." It may be getting one rat out to hold it, but I try to spend time with each of my many rats. We watch tv together, do the laundry and even take walks. My rats love to ride in a hood of a hooded sweatshirt. Females are always going to be a little more "squirly" than boys but they have just the same loving personality.

Lack of socialization can cause serious problems. Even though fancy rats may be domesticated they still have their natural wild behaviors. I have personally seen a rat that lived by alone, self-mutilate. She had such a strong sensation to groom that she groomed herself to wounds. This is a very important part of rattie life that owner's need to keep in mind.