Introducing female rat to 2 babies

[abby3089]

I have a 6 month old female rat, Izzie, who just lost her sister/bonded companion a week ago. I have found two female babies to be her new sisters, and I will get them in a few weeks (March 17-21) at which point they will be 5 weeks old. I will have them living in my hospital cage until they have been properly settled in and introduced to Izzie.

I have been researching rat introductions and all of the steps... But I was wondering if anyone had any experience or pro-tips for introducing a single rat who lost her companion to new babies.

A little background on Izzie (if it matters): She is obviously still somewhat young at 6 months, and she has a wonderful personality which I am hoping will make this easier. Even though she has been down since losing her sister, she continues to be a complete and total love: super social and friendly. She was definitely the submissive rat in her relationship with her sister.

 

[SQ]

Do not physically intro them until the babies are 10 weeks old.
Prior to that they can get used to one another's scent etc by exchanging cloths.
Make sure they are unable to reach one another through cage bars.

When you do intro them, make sure you follow the established gradual intro steps

 

[abby3089]

Why 10? I've been reading everywhere that 6 to 8 weeks is desirable depending on their size and weight.

 

[SQ]

They need to be large enough to defend themselves in case they need to.
Recommended age is at least 10 weeks .... but intros are easier while they are still babies (12 weeks and younger).

 

[Aida]

I think your babies should be OK.

Start by exchanging toys between the cages so that they can get used to each other's scents. And of course, introduce on neutral territory under constant watching when they are old enough.

 

[jorats]

At 6 months, your sweetie is pretty much an adult now. I like to intro babies no sooner than 8 weeks old.