Why do rats chatter and grind their teeth?

Owners of ornamental rodents sometimes wonder why a rat chatters its teeth. This behavior has several explanations. To understand the reasons, you need to consider the situation as a whole.

Teeth grinding with pleasure

The most common situation for a characteristic creak is a state of peace and joy. It occurs when the owner puts the animal on his shoulder, scratches behind the ear, strokes and interacts with the pet in other ways. In this case, the decorative rat makes sounds whose meaning corresponds to the purring of a cat.

The animal shows the owner love and happiness from the fact that he is taken care of. Sometimes the vibration of the body is added to the sound. This is the highest degree of joy.

Resting state

Rodent incisors grow constantly, so they need to be sharpened. Often after eating, the domestic rat rests and spends time usefully. A specific gnashing indicates that the pet is simply sharpening its teeth. This procedure is essential. Too long incisors interfere with eating, can grow into the oral cavity, causing pain and discomfort to the animal.

Sometimes at this moment the eyes of the animal may “bulge” – this is normal. After the procedure, the pet will look as usual.

hard food

While eating too hard food, you can also hear the rat grinding its teeth. She usually spends a little time on this. The main goal is to re-sharpen the incisors for more efficient chewing of hard pieces.

Excitement and arousal

Rodents emit not only squeak and rattle. If the animal is frightened or extremely interested in something, then you can hear how it snaps its incisors excitedly. The state of curiosity is characterized only by this sound.

Negative emotions are clearly recognized by additional signs:

• reared wool;
• body tension;
• unblinking glance at one point.

Such behavior is evidence of stress or fear. The manifestation is possible in an unfamiliar environment, in a veterinary clinic, with the appearance of new pets.

When hissing and squealing is added, this means that the animal is preparing to attack. A similar sight in a cage with several individuals is a signal that the most aggressive must be immediately isolated. Otherwise, a bloody fight is likely.

Symptom of illness

Decorative animals are prone to disease due to low immunity. The most common pathologies are:

• tumors of various etiologies;
• stroke and heart attack;
• pincers;
• respiratory diseases;
• elongated teeth.

Almost all of these ailments are accompanied by pain. In order to inform the owner of the discomfort, rats chatter their teeth. This sign indicates moderate pain. In order not to bring the animal to severe torment, it is necessary to take prompt measures and visit a veterinarian.

Rat tongue is very diverse. In addition to tapping, they make other sounds. If you learn to distinguish between them, then you can interact with your pet to the maximum and enjoy funny antics and habits.