Putting Baby Rats in With Older Rats

If you are considering putting your baby rat in with older rats, it is important to remember that there is a certain amount of risk in this process. Although it can take two weeks for the rats to get along, they are usually the best of friends after this time. Ensure that your rat’s new home is free from threatening noises and smells. It is also important to limit the exposure of your rat to other animals and create a calm environment. If you can’t keep them apart from each other, they may find each other frightening.

Once your rat has grown used to their new home, you can start introducing them to new areas. This will get them used to exploring their new surroundings and reinforce that YOU are the safest place for them. They will love being with you, and may even try out laying on your table or bed to get used to being around you. If they are not too afraid of humans, they will continue to check out new places and come back to you when they need reassurance.

Before introducing your baby rat to older rats, it is best to wait until the baby has reached six or seven weeks old. This will help protect your new baby rat from aggression by the older ones. If you introduce them to male rats, wait until they are at least six weeks old.