How do you introduce adult rats? - briefly
First, place the newcomer in a neutral cage lined with bedding from the resident colony and watch for any aggressive behavior. If both rats remain calm, allow brief, supervised contact before fully integrating them into the main enclosure.
How do you introduce adult rats? - in detail
When bringing together mature rats, follow a systematic protocol to minimize aggression and promote stable social groups.
First, isolate each newcomer for a minimum of two weeks. During quarantine, conduct health examinations, treat parasites, and record weight and behavior. This period also allows the resident colony to adjust to the scent of the new individual without direct contact.
Second, exchange bedding between cages. Place a small amount of the newcomer’s soiled material in the resident’s enclosure and vice versa. The scent swap familiarizes both parties with each other’s odor, reducing the shock of an immediate face‑to‑face encounter.
Third, arrange a neutral meeting space. Use a clean, empty cage or a large enclosure that neither rat has claimed. Introduce the animals simultaneously, providing multiple hiding spots and visual barriers. Observe for a brief period (5–10 minutes) while keeping hands clear of the enclosure.
Fourth, assess behavior. Acceptable signs include sniffing, gentle grooming, and parallel walking. Immediate fighting—characterized by biting, lunging, or prolonged chases—requires separation and a repeat of the neutral‑space step after another 24 hours.
Fifth, gradually increase interaction time. Extend sessions by 10‑15 minutes each day, adding more enrichment items such as tunnels and chew toys. Maintain at least two separate feeding stations to prevent competition over food.
Sixth, transition to a shared permanent cage only after consistent peaceful behavior over several days. Ensure the enclosure offers ample space (minimum 0.5 sq ft per rat), multiple nesting sites, and vertical climbing opportunities. Provide separate water bottles initially, merging them once hierarchy stabilizes.
Finally, continue monitoring for subtle signs of stress—weight loss, excessive grooming, or reduced activity—for at least two weeks after cohabitation begins. Adjust group composition promptly if chronic aggression emerges.