Quote Originally Posted by lord jackel
2 possibilities


First most "pet store" rats are so imbred that they have really poor immune systems, are kept in mass tanks so the ammonia builds up (which is bad) and usually are fed a poor diet of whatever is available cheap. We also see a lot that have bugs (lice mainily, but mites and others too)... All of this leads to just being too much for the rat and they die. The reason is typically not know exactly but is some combination of the above.

Second, could be a territorial issue. Sometimes bonded females will gang up on new males...not common but if the male is sick (something they sensed that you didn't) they will kill him. Did you notice and scars, bite marks, etc. on him?

Unfortunately you will pry never know why...my suggestion is if you have a breeder near you try getting a male from them this way you know its background.

Also, just like snakes you should QT all new rats you never know what they are carrying and could pass on to your healthy rats.

No bites or anything, I even saw the male mating with one of the females the other day so I think they were getting along just fine.

I wish I knew a place to get quality stuff, is there like a list of rat breeders or something? I only know of Petco and Petsmart that sell rats as pets around here