I have a rat that I got about a week and a half ago and I'm afraid she might be lonely when i'm gone so do you think it would be alright to get another?
2007-10-19 17:22:57 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Rodents
Sure, another girl would make your little one so much happier. You should quarantine the newcomer for a few weeks before carefully introducing them in neutral territory or you can hold both of them. If all goes well for the first few play sessions, go ahead & put themin the same cage (best if you clean & rearrange the cage 1st). If there's any tension between them, give it awhile til they're used to each other (put the cages next to each other after the quarantine period).
We've only had 1 slight problem introducing females & this was a *very* temporary issue. For whatever reason, our hairless girl was *not* happy with our little hooded girl when the cages were placed side by side-- she "huffed" @ the newbie for about 2 weeks. They're wonderful pals now tho.
2007-10-19 17:34:52 · answer #1 · answered by Catkin 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Female rats are much easier to introduce than male rats. Definitely quarantine any new rat for at least a week.
Then, place their cages near each other so they get used to the scent of the other one. You can also switch and place them in each other's cages for short periods.
I would them introduce them in a "neutral area", such as the bath tub (make sure you plug the drain!) If they seem to get along well, you can then try placing them in the same cage together.
If there seems to be some hostility, try putting something like yogurt on each of their backs - they may end up grooming each other, which is a bonding experience. Their may be some nipping and wrestling, but this is their way of establishing ranking. As long as it's not too violent and no injuries are incured, it's good to let them sort it out for themselves.
Good luck and just take it slow!
Oh, and ditto other poster - definitely get another female rat, unless you want a whole brood!
2007-10-19 17:48:49 · answer #2 · answered by Muhnkee 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Well, I have never had a problem getting rats at different times.
My first rat, Bubba (Rest in Peace, my friend, I still get heavy-hearted) was 4 months old when I bought Harry.
When Bubba passed on about 6 weeks ago, I bought 2 new baby boys (Woodrow and Bambi). Harry gets on just fine with them.
Rats love company. Make sure you clean the cage first, and ensure the new rat is absolutely healthy, lest you spread unwanted disease. If possible, get the rattie from the same place you got the other rat, they may be familiar with each other...or at least they will have been exposed to the same illnesses.
2007-10-19 18:49:58 · answer #3 · answered by treemeadow 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Rats really need cage mates, getting another rat is a great idea!
Every Rat is different. Some are more dominant or more submissive. Most will get along very well with a new rat, it may just need to be the "right" rat match. Another girl would be advised. Maybe you can work out a trial period for your potential new rat.
2007-10-19 17:35:50 · answer #4 · answered by Michelle 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It looks such as you purely have been given unlucky. even regardless of the undeniable fact that very uncommon, rats specially cases purely won't be able to get alongside. this may be by way of unsuitable introduction or undesirable genes. regardless of the undeniable fact that, rats do want a pal. you mustn't in any respect purely get one, it relatively is common for them to combat. If there is no blood, then it relatively is nice. attempt to locate a breeder on your section, a breeder breeds rats with genetics and character in touch. puppy shops purchase from rodent turbines the place they shove any 2 rats right into a small plastic field and need they stay alive. 0.5 bypass to feeder, different 0.5 is bought as pets. those rats are many times shyer, greater skittish, and die before. Breeders have intense high quality puppy rats. in case you won't be able to stumble on a breeder (it relatively is unlikely in case you Google it) then attempt and discover muddle friends. they could set up dominance, yet they could desire to no longer be injuring one yet another.
2016-10-07 06:30:37 · answer #5 · answered by devoti 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, you can, but you need to follow the instructions in the following links TO THE LETTER.
http://ratguide.com/health/basics/quarantine.php
http://ratguide.com/care/behavior/introducing_rats.php
Quarantine the new rat(s) in a separate airspace (a friend's house) for a MONTH! A week is nowhere NEAR enough!
2007-10-19 19:38:17 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
are u the rat king?
2007-10-19 17:25:43 · answer #7 · answered by kobefor3 2 · 0⤊ 3⤋