Introducing a new rat?

[Harriet]

So, I just got a pair of baby fancy rats. I've had them for about two weeks, but just yesterday one of them unexpectedly died of pneumonia.

I know that rats really like being social and need a playmate, and I would like to get a new one for her, as I can't give her constant attention. However, I was wondering if rats often react badly to a new addition? If I did get another rat, would this one bite/harass/terrorize it?

 

[Real Deal CowGirl]

well,you dont want to just throw it in there,its best to introduce them slowly,first you introduce them in a neutral area,like a couch or a bathtub,somewhere that doesnt belong to either of them (this is after the initial quarantine period of corse) then you let them play for a while,and then eventually you start to rotate their cages,swapping them or taking some bedding and putting it in each others cages,to get them used to the smell,then take the cage you want them for,clean it good,and put them together,it can take a while,you dont want to rush it,but eventually they will get used to each other...

 

[Emmyjak13]

Before you even consider buying a new rat it is EXTREMELY important to make sure your current rat has been taken to the vet and in 100% healthy. Pneumonia is usually a secondary infection. The primary is often an upper respiratory infection called Mycoplasma. A vet exam and antibiotics may cost $40-$50 (more or less) depending on where you live.
Then, when you do bring home a new rat make sure you buy a rat of the same sex (obviously). Your new rat will need to be quarantined for at least 1 week before trying to introduce them (you don't want your new rat to bring in another illness and re-infect your newly healthy baby)
Once you know everyone is infection free you can introduce them on neutral ground. Let them play a while and if they get along get out a dish of food and make sure there is no food aggression. I introduced my new baby to 2 females and there has never been 1 fight between them. They took to each other immediately. It is UNBELIEVABLY uncommon to have a rat that will not accept a new rat. Just make sure before you put them in the cage together you clean and rearrange to make it seem "new". Once they are in the cage watch them closely all day just to make sure everyone is getting along. If you run into any problems along the way just take things slowly.. They will be best friends in no time!