Could my rats be allergic to my cat?

[JR1030]

My cat has taken to sitting on the table right in front of the rat cage, and I've noticed a lot of sniffing type noises, especially from one guy, while the cat is sitting there.  Also, the same guy seems to be lunging at the cat, sort of trying to get him or something.   Could the noises be some sort of aggression noise?  Or could he really be allergic, and just sneezing while the cat is there?  I haven't noticed a lot of sneezing other times.  Hmmm.

[lilspaz68]

I call that huffing and puffing and yes the rat is being territorial about the cat near his cage.  Does he kinda bounce around the side of the cage near where the cat is with his fur puffed out a bit?

[JR1030]

I call that huffing and puffing and yes the rat is being territorial about the cat near his cage.  Does he kinda bounce around the side of the cage near where the cat is with his fur puffed out a bit?

Totally!  If the cat moves to the other end of the cage, Cash kind of jumps across to follow him.  I find it slightly amusing, but do you think it's too traumatic for the rats?  Should I stop the cat from sitting there?

[lilspaz68]

I would if you can.  Sometimes they are so intent on their behaviour that if a cagemate comes up and bumps them unexpectedly, they will whirl and jump on them by mistake.

[JR1030]

I would if you can.  Sometimes they are so intent on their behaviour that if a cagemate comes up and bumps them unexpectedly, they will whirl and jump on them by mistake.

Gotcha.  Thank you!