Lost and found rat

Question
2 days ago I lost my 6 month old pet Rat Binna. I found her the next morning. She acting very different she doesn't want to be held or touch much. She was always the first to the door to greet me and beg to came out. Is there anything I can do to get her to trust me again.

Thank you.

Answer
Hell Stephanie. Sorry that it has taken me so long to get to you but I was having some technical problems with the All Experts site not sending me notification emails for new questions, and some questions never showing up for me. I hope this finds you well though...

Binna sounds as if she is still frazzled by the whole experience of being lost. Give her a few days to calm down and then start slowly trust training her. I recommend that everytime you want to go to the cage bring with you a very yummy treat like pudding, baby food, baby oatmeal and baby food mixed, deli meats ect.. Something smelly and yummy. Talk quietly and off the treats to all the rats (she will smell it on their breath and want to try some) When she comes to the cage door, offer her some treats and let her eat it from your hand. Do this as often as possible. If she doesn't come to the door though, don't give her treats. It may take a while but I think it will work well for her since she was outgoing before she went missing.

Once she begins to trust you and wants to exit the cage, allow her to climb out on to you or gently pick her up. If she struggles and vocalizes not wanting to be held, don't force it and let her go... Preferably though she will exit on her own. always offer treats when she is out, or right after going back in or when she comes to the door. She will then associate the good food feelings with you!

I hope this help and again, while the technical issues with the site and my pending questions were out of my hand, I do still apologize for the wait. I hope things are going well and please let me know if you need any more help at all. Good luck!