jumping

Question
Its me again. I dont know why, but last night after I turned off the light to go to sleep, there was a thumping sound. i turned on the light and saw my rat jump and hit the top of his cage, like he was trying to get out or something. is something wrong with him or does he just want my attention? i took him out twice to play with him and he stopped after the second time (or maybe i just never heard it again?)

Answer
Hi again Tasha!
There are a few of reasons for that behavior. The first is static shock. If you think getting zapped by a carpet is fun, try being 7 inches long...the zap feels like a cattle prod!

Another reason could be a splinter in the litter. If the rat is stepping on something uncomfortable, (even a spaghetti noodle!), he may "pop" in the air.

The third is the reason you figured out...your rat is saying, "HEY, come back and play with me!!" If that's the case you can  help ease his  separation anxiety by giving him things to keep his mind occupied.

Parrot toys..anything that hangs from a cage, are great. In one of our cages we have tight ropes...just bunjy cords draped from one corner to another so the rats can have climbing time. Another tricks is wadding up a piece of paper, and hiding a treat in side so the ratty has to hunt it out. Cat toys are fun too. You can have a hanging feather, and the little guys go nuts for them. Rats, like cats, like to play catch, so anything they have to grab is a super toy. Try a ping pong ball on a stretchy string.

You may consider getting him a buddy. If he has a play mate in his cage, he won't try to get your attention as ofteh. Sounds like he has you trained, though!

The last reason he could display that behavior is if he is in pain. You haven't given any indication of any wounds, or cuts, so I'm guessing that's not it.

I'm so happy you're enjoying each other.

Cathe