Can Rats Be Alone?
WouterSingle rats often develop behavior problems and neurotic tendencies. One owner reported that her single female became possessive and clingy when she was taken out of her cage. She also threatened anyone who came near “her” human. After she had a cagemate introduced to her at six months old, her behavioural problems disappeared and she is now a happy, healthy companion.
It’s important to remember that rats are social animals and can get lonely if they aren’t surrounded by other animals. Keeping your rat companions together is the best way to reduce their loneliness. However, if you decide to add a new rat, you’ll need to introduce it slowly and separate the older rat from the new one.
Rats that live in groups often live longer, more active lives. When they live in groups, they get to participate in more activities and are less likely to experience loneliness. In addition, isolated rats often become chewy and neurotic. You’ll need to provide companionship for your rat to keep him happy and healthy.
Although rats can live alone, they prefer to be in groups and pairs. In the wild, rats live in large family groups. Compared to hamsters, rats enjoy the company of other rats. In addition to playing with each other, rats bond with each other through touch, smell, and sound at frequencies humans can’t hear. Since rats need each other to be happy and healthy, they do best with other rats.
