What is the name of Shapoklyak's rat in the cartoon? - briefly
The pet rat belonging to Shapoklyak is named Lariska. She appears alongside Shapoklyak in the classic “Cheburashka” animated series.
What is the name of Shapoklyak's rat in the cartoon? - in detail
The pet rodent belonging to the mischievous character Shapoklyak is identified as Krysa.
Krysa appears in the Soviet animated series featuring Cheburashka and Gena the Crocodile. The animal is a brown, short‑haired rat that frequently assists Shapoklyak in her schemes, such as stealing umbrellas or causing minor disturbances in the park. Although the rat rarely speaks, it communicates through squeaks and gestures, which are interpreted by the audience as supportive actions for its owner.
Key details about Krysa:
- Species: domestic brown rat (Rattus norvegicus).
- First appearance: the 1969 short “Cheburashka” (original Russian title «Чебурашка»).
- Role: sidekick to Shapoklyak, providing physical assistance and occasional comic relief.
- Voice work: performed by sound effects specialist Anatoly Grachyov, who created the characteristic squeaking sounds.
- Recurring presence: appears in most episodes where Shapoklyak is involved, including “Gena the Crocodile” (1970) and later sequels.
Krysa’s design emphasizes a small, agile creature that can slip into tight spaces, reinforcing Shapoklyak’s image as a cunning, resourceful antagonist. The rat’s consistent visual and auditory traits make it instantly recognizable to viewers of the series.