How many centimeters long is a pet rat? - briefly
Adult pet rats generally have a body length of 20–25 cm, extending to about 30–40 cm when the tail is included.
How many centimeters long is a pet rat? - in detail
The body length of a domesticated rat, measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, generally falls between 15 cm and 20 cm for an adult of average build. This range reflects the most common laboratory and fancy‑rat strains kept as pets.
Factors influencing size:
- Breed: Larger varieties such as the Dumbo or Rex can exceed 20 cm, while smaller strains like the Hairless or Standard may remain near 15 cm.
- Sex: Males typically add 1–2 cm to the average female length.
- Age: Juveniles grow rapidly; by eight weeks they reach roughly 10–12 cm, approaching full size at three months.
- Nutrition and health: Adequate protein and a balanced diet support normal growth; chronic illness or malnutrition can reduce final length.
Tail length is not included in the body measurement but adds approximately 15 cm to the total length of a mature rat. When measuring, place the animal on a flat surface, gently extend the spine without stretching, and use a calibrated ruler or digital caliper for accuracy.
In summary, a typical pet rat’s body measures 15–20 cm, with variations attributable to genetic line, gender, developmental stage, and overall health.