Very agressive older female rats

Question
About a month ago I aquire some rats from a friend at work who could no longer care for them due to allergy. I knew when I got them that they were both nervous animals who were skittish about being touched (one more so than the other).

They are full adults, although I'm not sure how old and I know they have had another owner before my friend from work. This origional owner did not even name them which makes me question how they could ever have made amy attempts to handle or bond with the girls?!

I allow them both to come out of the cage and run around the room, which they seem quite happy and confident to do. One of them (Sac) generally avoids me and is a bit jumpy when I move, although she has come up to me a couple of times but on one occassion bit me on doing so. The other (Pip)seems confident in approaching and climbing on me, but usually bites me once she is on me. The first time I thought it was because she was scared because I was holding a newspaper and she may have felt trapped. However, the other day I was simply sitting on my bed and she climbed onto me, put her forepaws on my chest and bit my chest! Obviously I am now really nervous whenever she approaches me, which I know she will sense and will make her more scared.

My other problem is the unfamiliarity with their behaviour. I studied animal behaviour at university and I know how important it is to understand behavour before you can help anials like this. I am just so unfamiliar wth rats!

I'm really worried about getting into a vicious cycle and I am not going to give up on them. They have been passed around enough and I would not risk passing them on to another person who is not willing to give them the time they deserve.

I hope you can help! Thanks so much!

Answer
When we come across a rat that bites we always use the "squeak" technique. It is to squeak loud when he/she bites. Just as they do when they bite one another. It is a warning and sign of communication they understand that it is not liked and causes pain. It takes time and patience but since you seem to be willing to do what it takes it will be a success.


Some great websites that I found will give more information on making a bond with your rat no matter what age.

http://www.cavyrescue.co.uk/rat-article10.shtml

http://ratplanet.0catch.com/biteandtrust.htm