[kaorii]

I was reading the diet guide on the forums and some questions came up. It says not to feed ratties dried corn or raw nuts: the mix I use has both of these in it. Will it do harm and should I switch brands?

 

[Darksong17]

Definitely switch. Unfortunately most pet store rat foods are not good at all. The only one I'd recommend would be Regal Rat if you can get it :3

 

[kaorii]

Ok, I'll switch her over when I go to pick up her new friend tomorrow ^^

 

[Darksong17]

You can see if anywhere near you carries Oxbow (they put out Regal Rat) supplies by using the store locator on their website: http://www.oxbowhay.com/

You know to quarantine the new rat you're picking up right? :3

 

[kaorii]

Yesh ^^, but for how long? And I've never introduced two ratties to each other before. Any tips?

 

[Darksong17]

Well, first you want to quarantine the new rat for four weeks in a separate building/house. This is to make sure no illnesses are passed. The new rat shouldn't be anywhere near your current one during this time and you'll want to wash your hands and change clothes (even shower if you can) between handling the new rat and your current one.

Where are you getting the new rat? I'd recommend looking into a reputable rescue or breeder as that also minimizes the chances of the new rat being sick (or pregnant).

Once quarantine is up as long as everyone is healthy you can start introductions. Here's some good sites on introducing rats:

http://ratguide.com/care/behavior/introducing_rats.php
http://www.ratfanclub.org/newrat.html
http://www.ratpalace.com/rat-articles/rat-introductions.php

 

[kaorii]

Alright, sounds good to me!

I'm definitely not getting her from a pet store. Luckily, I found a highly recommended breeder just a few miles away from me with a girl not much older than Lola. I've contacted the breeder asking for adoption information *has never adopted*

I'll go take a look at those websites ^^. Thank you for the info!

 

[Darksong17]

No problem, good luck! :3