What does a dead rat look like? - briefly
A dead rat usually has a limp, pale body, sunken eyes, and mottled, discolored fur, often emitting a strong odor. The abdomen may be bloated, and the tail can appear stiff or curled.
What does a dead rat look like? - in detail
A deceased rat typically measures 6–10 inches in body length, with a tail adding another 5–8 inches. The fur may appear dull, clumped, or matted, often losing its natural sheen. Skin can become taut or slack depending on the stage of decay; early post‑mortem it remains relatively firm, while later it may sag and separate from underlying tissue.
The eyes lose their glossy appearance, becoming cloudy or completely collapsed. Pupils are no longer distinct, and the corneas may appear milky. The ears, normally upright, often lie flat against the skull or become folded, and the cartilage may soften.
Mouth and nose exhibit signs of rigor mortis: the jaw may be fixed in a slightly open position, and the nasal passages can appear collapsed. Teeth remain visible, sometimes showing a slight discoloration from blood or tissue fluids.
The tail, usually thin and flexible, becomes rigid and may curl or straighten depending on muscular tension at the time of death. Fur on the tail may detach, revealing the underlying skin.
Observable indicators of decomposition include:
- Discoloration: early darkening of the skin, progressing to greenish or black tones as bacterial activity intensifies.
- Odor: a sharp, putrid smell emerges within hours, intensifying as tissue breaks down.
- Fluid accumulation: clear or reddish fluid may seep from body orifices, especially the mouth and anus.
- Insect activity: flies and maggots appear on exposed flesh, accelerating tissue loss.
- Skin slippage: patches of skin may peel away, exposing muscle and bone.
Internally, the carcass shows organ discoloration, with the liver and lungs turning dark brown or black. Blood pools in dependent areas, creating lividity that appears as purplish staining on the underside of the body.
The combination of these external and internal characteristics provides a comprehensive visual profile of a rat after death.