Expert: Sandra Todd - 8/25/2008

Question
Hi Sandra,

We have just got ourselves a female rat she is aboout 12 weeks old, she is settling in very well to her new home and adjusting very well with humans.

Initially we wanted a male rat because we heard they we supposed to be more calm and cuddly. Our rat is somewhat calm at times..but mainly very active...as females are supposed to be...i am also aware she will likely calm down with age.

However, we would like to give her company but we would love to get a male to have one with hopefully a more cuddly side.
If we were to get a male they would be in the same cage, is this ok? Obviously the male would be neutered and we would have them be aquanted while still young.

My real question is, will they get along together if they are the opposite sex? Will they sleep together and play...would it make a difference if they are of different sex as to how happy they are?

Thanks very much,

Kaitlyn

Answer
Absolutely! Great idea! A neutered male will get along with any rat, male or female!
Rule of thumb to avoid babies: wait 3 weeks after the neuter to put them together and of course be sure your vet is a skilled surgeon with rats before letting him do the surgery. Neutering rats is not a picnic and I would be so sure the vet is experienced that he can neuter a rat with both hands tied behind his back and his eyes closed. I am of course, kidding....but you know what my point is!  LOL!