How do rats behave when they are dying? - briefly
Rats nearing death often become markedly lethargic, isolate themselves from conspecifics, and reduce grooming, eating, and drinking. They may also display signs of discomfort, such as altered posture, reduced mobility, and occasional vocalizations.
How do rats behave when they are dying? - in detail
Rats approaching the end of life exhibit a recognizable pattern of physiological and behavioral changes.
Metabolic decline appears first as reduced food and water intake. Within hours to days, the animal loses weight, shows hypothermia, and displays irregular breathing, often with periods of apnea followed by rapid, shallow breaths.
Motor activity diminishes markedly. Rats become less mobile, spend most of the time curled in a corner or beneath bedding, and avoid open spaces. When they do move, locomotion is slow and uncoordinated, with frequent stumbling.
Self‑care deteriorates. Grooming behavior ceases, and fur becomes matted and dirty. The animal may exhibit a “piloerection” response, raising its hair along the back, which signals discomfort or distress.
Social interactions change. In group housing, terminal individuals are frequently ignored by conspecifics; aggression declines, and affiliative contact such as huddling or grooming by cage mates becomes rare. If isolation is imposed, the rat shows little interest in external stimuli, including novel objects or human handling.
Vocalizations increase in the final phase. High‑frequency squeaks and occasional low‑tone grunts are emitted, especially when the animal is touched or disturbed. These sounds are often brief and irregular, reflecting pain or malaise.
Neurological signs emerge late. Reflexes become sluggish; the righting reflex may be absent. The animal may exhibit tremors or seizures, particularly if underlying disease involves the central nervous system.
Excretion patterns shift. Urination and defecation become infrequent, and when they occur, the waste is often scattered rather than confined to a specific area, indicating loss of control.
These observations provide a comprehensive picture of the terminal stage in rodents, useful for researchers monitoring welfare and for veterinarians assessing end‑of‑life care.