What does a rat look like at six months old? - briefly
At six months, a rat is fully mature, measuring roughly 7–9 cm in body length with a 12–15 cm tail, covered in dense gray‑to‑brown fur, and displaying prominent whiskers, pink or black ears, and red or pink eyes. Its musculature is well‑developed, giving the animal a sleek, tapered silhouette.
What does a rat look like at six months old? - in detail
A rat that has reached six months of age displays the physical characteristics of a mature adult. The body length, measured from nose to the base of the tail, typically ranges from 20 to 25 cm (8–10 in), while the tail adds an additional 15 to 20 cm (6–8 in). Body mass averages 300–500 g (10–18 oz), with males generally heavier than females.
Coat condition is fully developed. Fur is dense, glossy, and evenly distributed across the dorsum, giving a sleek appearance. Color patterns vary by strain: common laboratory strains exhibit a uniform coat (e.g., albino, hooded, or agouti), whereas pet rats may show mixed or spotted coloration. The ventral side is lighter, often white or pale pink, and the whiskers are long, stiff, and symmetrically arranged around the muzzle.
Facial features are well defined. Eyes are large, dark, and clear, with pupils that dilate rapidly in low light. Ears are rounded, proportionate to head size, and covered with a thin layer of hair. The nose is moist and pink, and the incisors are fully erupted, constantly growing and self‑sharpened by gnawing.
Limbs exhibit full muscular development. Forepaws contain four toes, hind paws five, each equipped with sharp, retractable claws. Digits are flexible, allowing precise manipulation of objects. The musculature of the hindquarters supports powerful jumps and rapid sprinting; a six‑month‑old rat can reach speeds of 8–10 km/h (5–6 mph).
Reproductive organs are mature. In males, the testes are descended and the scrotum is clearly visible; the penis is proportionally elongated. In females, the abdomen may show slight enlargement due to ovarian activity, and the vulva is easily discernible.
Overall, a rat at this stage presents a robust, fully formed adult with a sleek coat, well‑developed sensory organs, and mature musculature, distinguishing it clearly from juvenile individuals.