Description and Physical Characteristics of Rats
- Rats
- Introduction to Rats
- Description and Physical Characteristics of Rats
- Special Considerations for Rats
- Selecting a Rat
- Providing a Home for a Rat
- Routine Health Care of Rats
- Breeding and Reproduction of Rats
Adult female and male rats typically weigh 12 to 16 ounces (350 to 450 grams) and 16 to 23 ounces (450 to 650 grams), respectively (see Table: Rats at a Glance). They are about 9 to 11 inches long without the tail. Male rats are usually larger than females. Pet rats are available in several colors and coat patterns due to specialized breeding. The common color variations include brown, black, tan, gray, and white with both lighter and darker shades as well. Some of the more exotic colors are Siamese, blue, silver black, silver fawn, lilac, cinnamon, black-eyed white, cinnamon pearl, lynx, silver agouti, silver lilac, and blaze. Rex rats have a curly coat. Tailless rats are born with no tails and hairless rats have no fur. The average life span of rats is about 2.5 to 3.5 years.
Rats at a Glance
Resources In This Article
- Rats
- Introduction to Rats
- Description and Physical Characteristics of Rats
- Special Considerations for Rats
- Selecting a Rat
- Providing a Home for a Rat
- Routine Health Care of Rats
- Breeding and Reproduction of Rats
Also of Interest
Test your knowledge
Most urinary tract pathogens are not considered zoonotic. However, which of the following organisms is most likely to be transmitted via infected urine from animals to humans?