How much does an adult rat “Dumbo” weigh? - briefly
«Dumbo» rats reach full size at about 6–8 weeks; mature individuals usually weigh 250–350 g. Weight can fluctuate with diet and sex, with males tending toward the higher end of the range.
How much does an adult rat “Dumbo” weigh? - in detail
The weight of a fully grown rat identified as «Dumbo» falls within the normal range for mature laboratory‑type Rattus norvegicus. Typical adult specimens of this species weigh between 300 g and 500 g, with most individuals clustering around 350 g to 450 g.
Factors influencing the precise mass of a particular animal include:
- Sex: males generally exceed females by 20–30 g.
- Diet: high‑calorie feedings can add 10–15 % to body weight.
- Genetic line: selective breeding for larger size may increase average weight.
- Health status: parasites or illness often reduce mass, whereas obesity raises it.
For a rat with the Dumbo ear phenotype, the ear enlargement does not substantially alter overall body weight. Observations of adult Dumbo‑type rats report average masses of 360 g to 440 g, aligning with the broader species range.
Accurate determination requires a calibrated digital scale with a capacity of at least 1 kg. Procedure:
- Zero the scale with an empty container.
- Place the animal, preferably in a familiar holding box, on the platform.
- Record the reading after the display stabilizes (typically within a few seconds).
Regular weighing (weekly) provides a baseline for detecting deviations that may signal nutritional imbalance or health problems. In summary, an adult rat named «Dumbo» is expected to weigh roughly 360 g–440 g, subject to the variables outlined above.