When is it safe to put boys with girls?

[Arlene]

I'm getting a new little boy today.  I've alwready named him Logan (unless he doesn't like the name LOL)   My question is, would it be safe to put him in with my neutered boys and Ana who will be 3 in a few months and Haley, who will be 3 in June? I am reasonable sure this will be okay, but thought I'd ask the "experts" for their opinion.  *big smile*  In the other cage is Ro, my 1 yr old sterile "he/she" child, 2 girls, Molly, Sally who were 2 in January and Rhea who will be 2 in April.  I'm not completely sure that it would be "safe" to assume that at least Rhea can't become pregnant, although I think it would be quite unusual.  What does everyone think?

Also, my husband Frank is going with me and he loves rats more than I do if that's possible!  It will be interested if he can come out of there with "just one", especially since I know that there are some really cute white dumbos there too.  *wicked smile*  I'll let you know.  he, he.

Arlene

[babbetto]

If a female isn't already spayed, she can become pregnant, regardless of her age...right? Make sure that you do the proper quarantine and introductions first. Save yourself a lot of grief down the road.

[ckhs]

Unless there has already been a quarentine done, three weeks. Then you will need to do proper introduction. Judging by the number of rats you seem to have i am assuming you have been through this before.
If not, check out the reference desk and it will provide with links to a ton of info on all things rat related.

[Marybelle]

I think it's generally assumed that female rats hit "menopause" sometime around 2 years.  But, no one knows for sure, and at that age, it would be dangerous for them to become pregnant, if it's still possible.  For absolute surety, he should be neutered too, and then wait three weeks...  

[scout]

Yep, females have been known to get pregnant at 2 years old, even an occasional 3 year old! Better safe than sorry, get the little guy neutered.