Would it be ok to introduce a new rat into my rat cage?

[Don't crush my freddo]

Hi there

I currently have two female rats, my cage is massive and can easily hold about six rats. I was thinking about adopting another rat as my local pet store has an adoption centre and every now and again some old unwanted rat comes along. I could easily buy another rat but I would rather adopt one, its nicer

Obviously it would be either a female or a neutered male. I would actually prefer a male but I know neutered pet rats aren't common in my area.

So, would it be possible for me to introduce a new rat into the cage? From what I've heard so far, they seem to be pretty accepting animals. Of course I would introduce them in neutral territory and see if they get on well with one another. My rats are very friendly in general but I know that's not always the thing that matters.

Is this a good idea and how should I go about the introduction process? I have lots of patience and affection to give too...

Thanks in advance!
lol how rude of you I already have a hamster actually, and to be quite honest I prefer my rats as they are more sociable and smarter and better to interact with. Don't be prejudiced because they are large, have tails and have a bad rep for being common on the streets.

 

[0_0_R0b3rt_0_0]

If i were you,i would give the unwanted rat a home,i mean,why not?Your responsible,you can take care of it,and you deserve it,so yes adding a new rat to the family would be great!Thank you so much for choosing to adopt=)

 

[Noah's Ark]

I think with rats that is fine to do. I would probably put them in a closed room that is escape proof or in a play pen first for about 2 hours just to see how they do with each other first and where it's easier for you to grab one if you need to. If everything goes well then I would clean the cage and move some things around, so it will be a new home for all of them. I think if the cage isn't clean for the new one the other two may take charge. This is what worked when we had rats. We ended up buying 2, then added one more a week later and this worked. Also, you may just in case want to keep an eye on them for 1-2 days after adding the one just in case. I also know a person who has 13 rats all different ages and keeps adding more and they are all perfectly fine. Good luck.

 

[Jessica Roos]

Yes! It would be fine to introduce a new rat to your cage. You seem to know what your doing so I wont go into any details lol.

I had rats when I was a little girl and I LOVED them! We had soooo many good times. Sadly they got old and died. I was so depressed for weeks. We didn't get anymore after that