I think my rats fight too much.

[slimynolegs]

What's the difference between fighting and playing? And by playing I mean, horsing around. Ratting around? Har har. I'm a newbie rat owner, so I'm not all in the know about these sorts of things, even though I'd like to think the rats and I communicate splendidly.

Every time I hear rustling and squeaking, I think they're about to rip each others' eyes and ears and tails off. Should I be worried? I have 1 2-month old rat (Pipsqueak), and 2 6-week old twins (Peanut and Pickles). Pipsqueak had about a month living by herself in a petco rat manor cage, and she and the babies were introduced and got along alright and everything. Two weeks later, I find a patch of fur missing on Peanut. The next day, there's a patch missing on Pickles!  Pipsqueak and Pickles are always snuggling up together and leaving Peanut out, which I think is kinda weird. Peanut and Pickles are blood sisters and were born and raised by the same mom. (Rat mom and human mom.) 

I've read about "barbering" too. I think it's just that, not mites. But still!!

Fighting or playing? I only notice them squeaking when there's rustling. And when there's squeaking, I assume one is scared or in pain. Rats are so weird. I love them. But, help. 

[LastEchoes]

Generally babies are more vocal when playing/wresting/fighting than adults. As long as there's no blood and no one is getting bullied (meaning, not letting one eat/drink/get in a house), I think there's nothing to worry about. Squeaking doesn't necessarily mean they're in pain...it could be just 'ahhh leave me alone, you win' stuff or excitement.  Pain squeaks are loud, short and sharp and heart wrenching.

They could still be establishing Alpha order and Peanut could be the last on on the chain of command, so to speak...Or perhaps she's just too warm (I live in Hollywood too, it's been hot lately). Just watch how they interact when they're awake.

[strangeduck]

My general rule is no blood, no foul.  Unless it's something where the rat is being so bullied that he cannot get away, and is screeching terror.  Generally though, I just let them work it out for themselves.