How many legs does a rat have? - briefly
A rat possesses four legs. All of its limbs are functional for locomotion.
How many legs does a rat have? - in detail
Rats belong to the order Rodentia, a group of tetrapod mammals. Consequently, each individual possesses four locomotor appendages.
The forelimbs consist of a scapula, humerus, radius, ulna, carpal bones, metacarpals and five digits. The hindlimbs contain an ilium, femur, tibia, fibula, tarsal bones, metatarsals and five digits as well. Both sets of limbs end in clawed paws that enable climbing, digging and rapid movement.
Typical digit arrangement:
- Front paws: five toes, the first (thumb) reduced, the remaining four bearing claws.
- Hind paws: five toes, all equipped with claws; the first toe is often slightly shorter.
The skeletal pattern is consistent across common species such as the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) and the black rat (Rattus rattus). Genetic mutations or injuries can produce individuals with fewer or malformed limbs, but the species’ normal anatomical plan includes four fully formed legs.
In summary, the standard anatomical configuration for a rat includes four legs, each with a complex arrangement of bones, joints and five toes.