Good idea to introduce a new Rat?

[JShmo]

I found a Rat in my garage several months back. I'm guessing he is about a year old now maybe a little less. He was in terrible shape, chewed on, starving etc. But of course I kept him as a pet since he's domestic... He was really super friendly for a few months until he hit puberty then got all aggressive... So, we got him neutered which solved those issues for the most part.
He's not really well socialized and has been living on his own since. I pet him, feed him, bring him out in the evenings to run around, but he's never really become fully comfortable w/ us. I'd really like to get him a female friend so he's not lonely! But I really didn't plan on having ONE rat, nonetheless two in our house =) I'm worried that they will not get along, then I'd have to get another cage for our small house. But at the same time I know it's not the best for Rats to be living alone.
Any ideas on if it's a good idea to introduce him to a new housemate at the age of apx. 1 ? He is neutered so not worried about baby ratlings... but just don't want to upset him or make life more stressful. Seems like he had a rough beginning to his life. Would he be okay w/ a younger rat? or shouuld I find one that is closer in age? Thanks!

 

[SmallPetExpert]

You should get a female.I think you should get one closer in age so they could get along.It's good he's neutered or else they would mate.Pu them next to eachother in different cage's.Chances are they will look at ecahother.Next put them in the same cage,for a a moment and see what they do.If they fight take the male out.Continue placing them next to ecahother in different cages.

 

[kater]

Rats for the most part need to be around each other as they are generally very social. Definitely getting a younger rat rather than an older one because they will not get along as easy.


If you do decide to get one to introduce I would take the 2 out and put them in the Bathroom together let them get to know each other. Put them in the cage for a couple minutes and see how they react.

Its natural for them to fight a first , if it does happen. But male and female don't usually argue as much as male and male.

I think you should get another. Rats don't do as well alone