How do fat rats look? - briefly
A plump rat has a rounded torso, short limbs, and an enlarged abdomen, with fur stretched tightly over the bulk, often creating a sagging look around the hips and tail base. The head appears relatively smaller, with broader cheeks and a fuller appearance.
How do fat rats look? - in detail
Obese rodents display a markedly expanded torso, with the dorsal line appearing rounded rather than linear. The ribcage is concealed beneath a thick layer of adipose tissue, and the ventral surface expands outward, forming a pronounced abdomen that often obscures the pelvis. The flanks bulge laterally, creating a silhouette that resembles a barrel shape.
Fur remains dense but may appear stretched over the enlarged body, resulting in a smoother appearance in areas of greatest expansion. Coloration typically does not change; however, increased skin visibility can occur on the neck, under the chin, and around the tail base, where the hair layer thins.
Limbs retain normal length but exhibit a broader appearance due to fat deposits on the upper portions of the fore‑ and hind‑feet. Paw pads become noticeably thicker, and the joints may appear less defined.
The tail, while still proportionally long, shows a uniform thickness along its length, lacking the usual tapering toward the tip. In some cases, a slight swelling at the base is observable, reflecting subcutaneous fat accumulation.
Facial characteristics include enlarged cheek pockets, giving the muzzle a fuller look. Eyes remain proportionate, but the surrounding fur may lie flatter against the skin. Whiskers retain their length and rigidity, though the base may be obscured by surrounding fat.
Visible health indicators often accompany the physical changes:
- Skin folds along the neck and under the abdomen
- Reduced mobility, especially when attempting rapid movements
- Slightly sagging skin around the hindquarters
These external markers collectively define the appearance of heavily overweight rats, providing a clear visual profile for identification and assessment.