Pet rats

[cherrypoker]

My pet rat Fred died this afternoon from a tumour. The thing is i also have another rat George and he has done nothing but cry since this happened.
George is 2years and 2 months and Fred was 16months. They had been together for 14 months.
I just wondered if anyone could give me any advice as to how to handle George, i really don't know what i can do for him it's horrible.
He does know that he has gone because he was washing him after he had died.
Does anyone know if he can adjust to being by himself?

Thanks!

[ruthann58]

sorry to her your rat has died cherry i dont have any advice as i have not had rats but i would think like most animals he just needs a bit of time to adjust to losing his friend ,hope you and your family are well xxx ruth

[cherrypoker]

Hi Ruth,

I haven't been on this site realy since Rocky died. I'm gutted about Fred. He's only been poorly for a couple of days. He was such a character, really loving. I'm going to miss him loads.
Hope you are well xxx

[wolf63]

I have never had a rat but they are intenlligent and sociable animals. He probably doesn't understand that Fred is dead.

As ruthann says - it will take time and a lot of TLC.

Good luck to both of you.

[devilspawn]

Keep him amused with extra toys to take his mind off it and some really nice treats - my rats used to love cheese.

Just handle him a lot to ensure that he knows he isnt alone - do not get another rat as he is too old to take on a youngster.

Rats are fab creatures and I miss mine - had 6 in total. Will get some more once my dog has gone to doggy heaven, but cant get more till then as I cant let them out of the cage.

Hope this helps - George will get ove it - just ensure he has lots of TLC

Good Luck

[cherrypoker]

Hi all,

Thanx for all the advice. George really isn't himself at all. I spoil them every day with treats anyway but i will continue to do so.
He is still crying though and he also nipped me twice yesterday which is very unusual.
I let him out of his cage last night as i do every night but he just went straight back in again.
I'll keep you all posted on how he is doing.

Thanks again!!