ALL ABOUT RAT

Rats are medium-sized rodents with long tails, sharp incisors, and a reputation that ranges from pests to pets. The most common types of rats include:

• Brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) – also known as the Norway rat or common rat.

• Black rat (Rattus rattus) – also called the roof rat or ship rat.

• Fancy rats – domesticated versions of the brown rat, kept as pets.

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🔬 Biology & Characteristics

• Family: Muridae

• Lifespan: 2–3 years (wild), up to 4 years (pet)

• Diet: Omnivorous – they eat grains, fruits, meat, and even garbage

• Habitat: Urban areas, sewers, fields, forests, and homes

Physical Traits:

• Sharp, constantly growing incisors

• Long, scaly tails for balance and thermoregulation

• Excellent climbers and swimmers

• Highly intelligent and adaptable

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🧠 Intelligence & Behavior

• Social Creatures: Rats live in groups and communicate with high-frequency sounds.

• Problem-Solvers: Can learn tricks, mazes, and even recognize their names.

• Empathy: Studies have shown rats help others in distress, showing signs of empathy.

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🏡 Rats as Pets

Fancy rats are affectionate, clean, and intelligent pets. They:

• Can be trained to do tricks

• Enjoy social interaction (best in pairs or groups)

• Need enrichment like tunnels, toys, and climbing areas

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⚠️ Rats as Pests

Wild rats are often seen as pests because they:

• Damage property (wires, insulation)

• Contaminate food

• Can carry diseases like leptospirosis, salmonella, and historically, plague (via fleas)

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🧪 Rats in Science

• Lab rats are essential in medical and psychological research

• Help in studying genetics, drug trials, learning behavior

• Controversial but considered vital in many scientific advancements

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📜 Cultural Significance

🐭 In the Chinese Zodiac:

• First sign in the 12-year cycle

• Traits: Clever, quick-witted, resourceful, charming

In Mythology & Literature:

• Associated with survival, cunning, and sometimes plague or deceit

• In India, rats are sacred to Ganesha and freely roam temples

• "The Pied Piper" is a classic story featuring rats

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🌍 Fun Facts

• Rats "laugh" in ultrasonic frequencies when tickled

• Can tread water for 3 days and survive falls from great heights

• Their teeth never stop growing – hence their constant gnawing