Rat Mouse — behavior (owner-practical care, Merck Veterinary Manual pet-owner)
Source: first-hand Merck Veterinary Manual pet-owner text, saved to source_file; every claim below is a C1 byte-substring of it.
Claims
Boschert , DVM, DACLAM , Washington University Last updated: Sept 2024 v3229967 Housing | Diet | Exercise | Temperament | For More Information | Your pet rat will need a suitable cage, a balanced diet, and the opportunity for exercise and socialization with you in order to remain in good health.Rats are extremely active and enjoy opportunities to exercise and play.Injuries can be prevented by keeping your pet in a cage free of hazards and always handling it carefully and gently.It is sometimes seen around the eyes and nose and may be a sign that your rat is ill or stressed.Boschert , DVM, DACLAM , Washington University Last updated: Sept 2024 v3229895 Domesticated rats are social, active, and intelligent, and they make good pets.Move slowly to avoid startling the animal, and watch its behavior; a rat that rears up to face your approaching hand is more likely to bite.Rats are social animals and need company; it is better to keep them in a group.Aggression is uncommon in domesticated rats that are raised together as littermates.Mice are extremely active and enjoy opportunities to exercise and play.Temperament Mice are very social animals, and they appreciate being in a group.Also watch your mouse’s behavior to see if it is scratching excessively.Because mice are social animals that need company, it is better to keep them in a group.
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Source: pdf-raw/owner-care/merck_rat_mouse.txt · https://www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets