How to Introduce a New Pet Rat to Another Rat

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: When you bring your new rat home

   Wash your hands between handling your rats.
   
   Some people choose to quarantine new rats from the others for several weeks.
2. 2

   Step 2: don't have it in the same room as your other rat until you're sure it won't pass on any diseases.

   This should get them curious about each other and used to seeing and smelling each other.
   
   It's normal for your rats to be a little agitated at first, but if they are constantly very upset and aggressive (hissing, puffing up fur, etc.), move the cage farther apart for a while before moving them closer again.
   
   DON'T ever place the cages within 6 inches of each other.
   
   The rats can reach through the bars and intentionally or accidentally harm each other. , Don't have them out of their cages at the same time.They will smell each other on your hands and get used to each other.
   
   After they are comfortable with seeing each other through the bars, start switching things in their cages.
   
   Put a paper towel in each cage and the next day, switch the towels.
   
   Or switch their hammocks, chew sticks, or water bottles.
   
   Do this every day for a while.
   
   At least a week is ideal.
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   Step 3: When you're ready

4. 4

   Step 4: place the new rat's cage in the same room as your other rat's cage

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   Step 5: but about three feet away.

6. 6

   Step 6: For the next week

7. 7

   Step 7: care for the rats separately.

Detailed Guide

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