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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/small-rats-need-company

What does the Merck Veterinary Manual recommend for keeping pet rats?

Keep them in a same-sex group; rats need company.

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  1. Always keep one rat alone
  2. Keep them in a same-sex group ✔
  3. Keep them with the family cat

Why: Merck says rats are social animals and need company, so it is better to keep them in a group. Keeping only rats of the same sex together is recommended, and male rats tend to fight unless they grew up together.

Huh, didn't know that: Rats often spend lots of time grooming themselves and their cage mates.

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Why did the rat bring a friend to the cheese shop? It was a grate idea.
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References

Answer: Keep them in a same-sex group. Merck says rats are social animals and need company, so it is better to keep them in a group. Keeping only rats of the same sex together is recommended, and male rats tend to fight unless they grew up together.

  1. Special Considerations for Rats (Merck Veterinary Manual) www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/rats/special-considerations-for-rats
    Rats are social animals and need company; it is better to keep them in a group.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Providing a Home for a Rat (Merck Veterinary Manual) www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/rats/providing-a-home-for-a-rat
    Male rats tend to fight unless they grew up together.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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