What does a rat do when it sneezes? - briefly
A rat expels air sharply through its nostrils, often causing a brief pause in activity. Immediately after, it typically resumes normal movement.
What does a rat do when it sneezes? - in detail
When a rodent expels air forcefully through the nasal passages, the event triggers a rapid contraction of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles. This muscular action generates a sudden pressure wave that clears the nasal cavity of irritants such as dust, pollen, or pathogens. The sneeze is typically followed by a brief pause during which the animal regains normal breathing rhythm.
The immediate physical response includes:
- A sharp, audible burst of air expelled forward;
- A brief flinch of the head and shoulders as the chest muscles contract;
- A momentary interruption of locomotion, often causing the rat to halt or change direction;
- Rapid eye blinking to protect the ocular surface from expelled particles.
Physiological mechanisms underlying the reflex involve the trigeminal nerve, which detects foreign particles in the nasal mucosa and sends signals to the brainstem sneeze center. The brainstem coordinates the motor pattern, ensuring synchronized activation of respiratory and facial muscles. After the sneeze, the nasal epithelium releases mucus to trap residual debris, and ciliary action resumes to transport mucus toward the pharynx.
Potential triggers for this reflex in laboratory or urban environments include:
- Accumulation of fine dust from bedding materials;
- Exposure to strong scents such as ammonia or essential oils;
- Presence of airborne pathogens or allergens;
- Sudden temperature changes causing mucosal irritation.
Observational studies note that after a sneeze, rats often exhibit a brief grooming behavior, using forepaws to clean the snout. This grooming serves to remove any remaining particles and to restore tactile sensitivity. In social contexts, a sneeze may briefly alert nearby conspecifics, leading to a short pause in group activity before normal interactions resume.