I've just taken on a male dumbo rat "Bobby" who needed rehoming because apparently he had a cold when he was a baby and the owner didn't want to keep him! I've been told he's around 4 months old.

I'm looking to put another rat in with him but really need some advice as to what's the best thing to do. It's been suggested that I have him castrated and then put a female in with him. Or maybe put a younger male in with him who hasn't reached maturity.

Can anyone shed some light on what's the best thing to do for Bobby as I'm really concerned about him being alone for too long.

Thank you.

Try introducing him to another male first. Is there any breeders near you that can help out with this? Most male rats will accept other male rats without worry. I would suggest two younger males. Things always seem to go better with me when i introduce two newbies lol.

Getting him "snipped" is an option but i personaly dont think it should be done unless its for medical purposes. I have never had an issue with intro's though, expect with one boy who is on his own now. He is very old though and is our last male rat.

Thanks for your advice. Unfortunately, I don't know of any breeders near me (Gloucestershire).

I actually got Bobby from Pets at Home - they have a section where you can adopt animals from a local animal shelter. I only went to the pet shop to get the telephone number for the shelter, but then saw Bobby!

He should take really well to a male kitten (rat kitten not cat kitten!) The kitten will submiss really easily therefore sorted out dominance really easily & preventing serious fights.
The problem with only having 1 kitten is that it could feel very intimidated so 2 kittens would be the ideal.... make sure you have enough room for 4 though!

Showing my ignorance here, how old should the kittens be? Thanks.

hi ive got 8 male rats 2 of which are dumbos got them in pairs at different times and had no problem at all introducing them. i always introduced young rats of about 7 weeks old and did it in a neutral place. the bath is a brilliant place obviously with no water lol. males usually take 2 other males easily as they're pretty laid back hop this helps x

Yes thats a great help, thank you. I've cancelled the vet's appointment to have Bobby "done" and will look out for 2 young males now.

good on you for re-homing him.take your introductions slowly and everything will be fine. i've never had any problems. you,ll always get the hanbags at dawn scenario and a bit of squeaking but it usually all goes well. post some piccies please

Hi. Just wanted to say thanks to everyone who gave advice. I've just bought two lovely young male rats from KristenBessant - Scooby and Fudge!
I introduced them to Bobby in the bath and they have taken to each other really well. Bobby seems a lot happier now he has company!

Thanks again - it's saved Bobby from the "snip".

I'll post pics when I can.

thats fantastic news told u baths a good idea im so glad bobby wont be lonely anymore xx