Is it safe for rats and chinchillas to live or play together?

Question

This isnt exactly about my pet being sick but can a rat and a chinchilla live together/play together? Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Male | unneutered | 2 years and 5 months old | 2 lbs

Dr. Strydom, DVM · Accepted Answer

It is not recommended that they live together. They have different environmental and dietary needs. Different species of animals will require different types and amounts of food. Some foods that are safe for one species may be unsafe to another. Rodents who are fed foods that are not formulated for them can develop health problems over time due to too much or too little of certain nutrients. If one animal is dominant over the other, they may not allow the passive animal to eat at all. Toys and supplies that are safe for one type of rodent may pose a hazard to others. The best example of this is dust baths. They can be used for chinchillas and larger rodents but are not considered safe for hamsters/mice/rats because the dust can cause respiratory problems. It is my opinion that you do not co-mingle them at all. You are just asking for trouble. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

Is it safe for rats and chinchillas to live or play together?

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