What do adult domestic rats look like? - briefly
Adult pet rats have a slender, elongated body covered in dense fur that may be white, black, brown, or mixed, with small hairless ears and prominent dark eyes. They feature a long hairless tail, a pointed snout, and dexterous forepaws ending in sharp claws.
What do adult domestic rats look like? - in detail
Adult domestic rats reach a mature size of 20–25 cm (8–10 in) in body length, not including the tail, which adds another 18–25 cm (7–10 in). Typical weight ranges from 300 to 500 g (10–18 oz), with females generally lighter than males.
The head is broad, with a short, blunt snout and a well‑developed set of whiskers (vibrissae) extending from the rostral region. Eyes are large, dark, and positioned laterally, providing a wide field of vision. Ears are small, rounded, and covered by a thin layer of fur; they lie flat against the skull and are highly mobile.
Fur varies widely among pet varieties. Common color patterns include solid black, brown, white, and agouti (a mix of dark and light hairs creating a speckled effect). Markings can appear as blaze, hood, or saddle patterns. Coat texture ranges from short and glossy in standard strains to long, dense, and wiry in “rex” or “hairless” types. Underlying skin is pink to light brown, depending on pigmentation.
The torso is cylindrical, with a flexible spine that allows the animal to squeeze through narrow openings. The dorsal musculature is well‑developed, giving a firm, rounded appearance. The ventral surface is lighter in color, often showing a pale pink hue.
Limbs are short and sturdy. Forepaws contain four toes, each ending in a small, curved claw; hind paws have five toes with similar claws. Digits are equipped with sensitive pads that aid in grip and tactile exploration. The tail is hairless, tapered, and covered with a fine layer of scales; it functions as a balance organ and can be up to 120 % of body length.
Sexual dimorphism is subtle. Males may exhibit a slightly larger body mass and more pronounced scent glands near the genital region, which can produce a faint musky odor. Females possess a visible abdominal pouch (the pregnancy line) when carrying offspring.
Overall, the mature pet rat presents a compact, muscular silhouette, a diverse palette of fur colors and textures, and distinctive anatomical features that facilitate its agility and social behavior.