What does a pet “Dumbo” rat look like? - briefly
A Dumbo rat features oversized, low‑set ears that sit near the top of a rounded head, a compact body, and a short, hairless tail. Its coat varies from white to sable, often displaying a glossy sheen.
What does a pet “Dumbo” rat look like? - in detail
A Dumbo rat is distinguished primarily by its oversized, low‑set ears that sit near the eyes rather than atop the head. The ears are round, pliable, and often appear to “flop” forward, giving the animal a distinctive, expressive look.
The head is broader than that of a standard fancy rat, with a short, blunt muzzle and a slightly flattened forehead. Eyes are large, dark, and set wide apart, enhancing the wide‑eyed appearance.
Body length ranges from 7 to 10 inches (18–25 cm), with a compact, muscular build. The spine is straight, and the torso is slightly broader at the shoulders, supporting the larger ear muscles.
Coat types include:
- Straight: smooth, glossy hair lying flat against the skin.
- Rex: short, curly fur giving a plush texture.
- Hairless (Sphynx): minimal hair, exposing skin that can show a range of colors.
Coat colors cover the full spectrum of rat pigmentation: solid black, brown, white, cream, grey, as well as patterned variants such as brindle, agouti, and roan.
The tail is long, thin, and covered with fine hairs; it tapers gradually and is fully functional for balance. Feet are small, with five toes on each hind paw and four on each forepaw, ending in sharp, retractable claws.
Weight typically falls between 250 and 500 grams, varying with coat type, age, and diet. Overall, the combination of large forward‑facing ears, a broad head, and a sturdy, well‑proportioned body defines the visual profile of a Dumbo rat kept as a companion animal.