How to safely introduce a new rat to my grieving pet rat after a loss?

Question

My pet rats kahlua passed away Wednesday night in my arms. Her sister Oreo has been having a hard time with her passing. So today I went to Petco and got her a new friend. How can I properly introduce them without Oreo freaking out. We have let them smell one another through the cage. I just am trying to deal and grieve at the same time. Any advice would be amazing. Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 8 months old | 1lb

Rebeccah Wood · Accepted Answer

I'm so sorry to hear about Kahlua. When one of a pair dies, it can be hard on the surviving rat. Slow, quiet introductions are best. Letting them smell each other through the cage at first is a good idea, then short, supervised visits outside the cage. If they seem to be getting along, you can increased their visit time, then move on to allowing them to visit inside the cage you intend on letting them live in together. I wouldn't leave them alone together in their cage until you're confident that they aren't fighting aggressively. This is unusual for female rats, but it can happen. Play fighting is one thing, but if one continuously chases the other, you may need to keep them separated for their safety. I hope that this isn't the case, and that you end up with a new set of best friends! My condolences for the loss of Kahlua, and best wishes for Oreo and her new buddy.

How to safely introduce a new rat to my grieving pet rat after a loss?

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