Can Rabbits and Rats Live Together?
WouterRabbits and rats are often found together and can get along great when housed in separate cages. However, this arrangement does present some risks. Ideally, both animals should be in separate cages. You should supervise them while they interact and make sure that they are separated. If they do get along, make sure that you lock them both up during the night and keep an eye on them.
While they can be kept together, it is recommended to keep the two species separated. While both species are intelligent, they may think they are “playing” together, and a rabbit may mistake this for “playing.” Rabbits can be a source of bacteria and fleas, so keep them separated to prevent the spread of disease.
Rats can be a source of food for rabbits. If you let them feed on your rabbit’s food, they may start eating it. While this may not seem harmful, excessive amounts can cause organ failure in your rat. In addition, rats can feed on your rabbit’s food, which can make your pet rabbit obese.
Rats are also prone to infections, including salmonellosis. This disease is caused by bacteria that is found in rats’ droppings. If your rabbit eats or drinks contaminated with salmonella, it can also become infected. Other diseases that can infect rabbits include hantavirus and leptospirosis. Leptospirosis can affect individual organs, while hantavirus causes respiratory failure and is transmitted through contaminated rat droppings.
