Rats are truly clever animals and can be taught a variety of interesting tricks. In this article, you will find helpful and straightforward tips to assist you in training your rat.

Training Basics

Step 1. When your rat assumes the position for the trick you want to show her, immediately say the same command and give her a treat.

Step 1

Once the rat performs the trick, be sure to praise her and give her a treat to reinforce this behavior. However, keep in mind that once the rat masters the trick, you should reduce the number of treats to avoid weight gain. Instead, you can offer healthier snacks or simply give her attention.

Step 2. Train your rat every day.

Step 2

Make sure to spend time with your rat every day. Rodents need time outside their cage to thrive. If you have multiple rats, try not to focus on just one. If your rat is alone, simply take her out of the cage, train her, and then put her back. If you have a friend and two rats, you can split up: one can train one rat while the other takes the second to a separate area to avoid distractions.

Step 3. Consider getting a hamster ball for your rat.

Step 3

Get a hamster ball for your rat. This is a great way for her to:

  • have fun while you clean her cage;
  • get physical exercise;
  • explore new territories without escaping. This is especially useful if you have multiple rats. Buy balls for all of them and set up rat races, making them navigate through tight spaces and small obstacles, moving through grass or a hill made of tiny balls.

Step 4. Train in a calm environment without distractions.

Step 4

Choose a quiet place for training so you can focus on the lessons. This will significantly simplify the learning process. Find a safe space where you won’t be disturbed.

Teaching the "Stand" Command

Step 1. Use a treat to encourage your rat to stand on her hind legs.

Step 1

Hold the treat above her head to encourage her to stand. As soon as she does, say the command "stand" and give her a treat. Teaching your rat is quite simple, isn’t it?!

Teaching to Shake Hands

Step 1. To teach your rat to shake hands, place a treat on your hand next to her paws.

Step 1

Put the treat on your hand where the rat can see it. Then gently take her paw and place it on the treat. Say the command "give paw" and reward her with the treat, then gently pet her.

Teaching the "Lie Down" Command

Step 1. To get your rat to lie down, place a treat on the floor outside her cage.

Step 1

Put the treat on the floor so your rat can notice it. If she doesn’t respond, try clicking your fingers near the treat. When the rat gets on the floor, quickly say the command "lie down".

Step 2. When your rat does something interesting in her cage, like standing on her hind legs, use the same command and toss her a treat.

Step 2

Teaching the "Come to Me" Command

Step 1. Place your rat some distance away from you.

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Start by practicing at short distances, gradually increasing them as your rat begins to understand your commands.

Step 2. Hold a treat in your hand so your rat can see it.

Step 2

When the rat approaches, say her name (if it’s long, try using a nickname).

Step 3. Regularly repeat the training while being cautious not to overwhelm or overfeed your rat.

Step 3

Repeat the training often, but keep an eye on your rat to ensure she doesn’t overeat or get tired. Once she starts following the command, gradually reduce the treats and switch to affection and praise.