How many centimeters do domestic rats reach? - briefly
Domestic rats typically grow to a length of 20–30 cm, not including the tail, which adds another 15–20 cm. Their overall size varies slightly by breed and nutrition.
How many centimeters do domestic rats reach? - in detail
Pet rats typically measure between 18 cm and 25 cm from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail when fully grown. The tail adds another 15 cm to 20 cm, giving a total length of roughly 33 cm to 45 cm. Size varies with several factors:
- Age: newborns are 3 cm–4 cm long; juveniles reach 10 cm–12 cm by four weeks; adults attain the dimensions listed above.
- Sex: males often exceed females by 1 cm–2 cm in body length.
- Breed: dwarf or “fancy” varieties (e.g., Dumbo, Rex) remain at the lower end of the range (18 cm–20 cm body length), while standard laboratory or pet strains can approach 25 cm.
- Nutrition and health: well‑fed, healthy individuals grow nearer the upper limits; chronic illness or poor diet can restrict growth.
Measurement should be taken with a flexible ruler, aligning the zero mark at the nose and recording the distance to the point where the tail meets the body. Recording both body and tail lengths provides a complete picture of the animal’s size.