Can my rat have company at this age?

Question

I've had my rat for my rat is now 1 and a half years old and she lives on her own. I made the common mistake of getting her on her own but she is always bored because I never have the time to spend with her. All websites tell me that she should have been bought with a friend, but can I buy a new rat to spend time with her now? PLEASE HELP!! Thankyou

Answer 1

Easiest way to introduce a new rat is in a bathtub. Neither rats owns that territorry so they are not likely to fight to defend it. Female rats are more likely to be accepting of new rats than males. I suggest getting a baby. One that is only about 6 to 8 weeks old. The babies tend to be more submissive to the adult and the female will be more mothering to the baby. You definatly should get her a friend though. Good luck.

Answer 2

yes my cuz did the samething just u have 2 keep them with u 4 1 day so they don't fight adn always keep an eye ontheme once and awhile

Answer 3

Young rats introduce better to older rats. Older rats rarely kill youngsters, unless your rat is really antisocial. The problem is, when she dies, the youngster won't have a companion. The solution: two young rats introduce better than one.

I prefer the cage within a cage intro method- new rat in a small holding cage withing the older rat's cage so they can sniff but not fight. This method along with the bathtub intros is a good way to go.

Answer 4

Dear Rodent Friend Inquirer,

Well, here's the thing. It's possible that she will accept the new rat, and it's possible that she won't. Be prepared for both.

I would try it out, because if she does, it can be an excellent tool for your existing rat, because she is quite bored. The rumor is right, you should've bought a friend with her.

Try it out, but if she doesn't accept the new rat, and they fight, you should definitely separate them. I hope you don't mind two rats!

Also, they need to be the same gender, so female,

Pet Rodent Expert