Yahoo Answers is shutting down on May 4th, 2021 (Eastern Time) and the Yahoo Answers website is now in read-only mode. There will be no changes to other Yahoo properties or services, or your Yahoo account. You can find more information about the Yahoo Answers shutdown and how to download your data on this help page.

?
Lv 5
? asked in PetsReptiles · 7 years ago

Is it possible for my rats to get along?

Eight months ago, I obtained two male rats - brothers. About a month ago, I got a new rat. I tried the proper introduction process over the course of two weeks, and things were going well. However, once I moved all three rats into a brand new cage together, one established rat (Loco) just didn't like the new rat (Gus) and seriously injured him. Since then, Gus has been living in his own cage that sits next to the other cage.

Recently, the other established rat passed away, and now the only two rats I have are Gus and Loco. I know rats shouldn't be left alone because they can get depressed, but it doesn't seem like the two are coming any closer to enjoying each other's company. I would think that, eventually, Loco will realize that his brother isn't coming back, and Gus makes a perfectly acceptable snuggle buddy. Is there any possibility of the two living happily together, or will Loco just decide to happily live on his own?

Update:

I also don't know how this ended up in Reptiles - I swore I hit Rodents.

Update 2:

I did introduce them on neutral territory (the bathtub) and used a brand new cage with brand new toys and hammocks.

3 Answers

Relevance
  • 7 years ago
    Favorite Answer

    There is a slim chance things will work out. Apologies if I overlooked this- but did you introduced them in a neutral area? And make sure that it was a new cage (I think you said it was)?

    If they are over three-months, it is usually very hard. Sometimes, rats just don't like each other (like people).

    If it fits your budget, you get two females and spay them (males hardly ever are mean to females), or buy two already spayed females.

    Hope everything works out!

  • 7 years ago

    I don't think so because they are both males and not brothers. Try the introductory thing again with a female rat if you don't want them alone.

  • Anonymous
    7 years ago

    picture u and ur brother. than answer ur own question

    will u hurt gus gus again?

Still have questions? Get your answers by asking now.