Rats are clever and curious creatures that can learn tricks just like pets. They have soft fur, long tails, and tiny whiskers that help them explore. Kids love watching rats play with toys or snuggle together in cozy nests.
Watch a Rat in Action!
Rats are very active and smart. In this video, you can see a rat exploring, using its whiskers, and having fun.
What Is a Rat?
A rat is a small animal in the rodent family. Rats are known for their quick movements and clever behavior.
- They have long tails and sharp front teeth that grow constantly.
- They use their whiskers to feel their way around.
- Rats are very social and can live with other rats or humans as pets.
Where Do Rats Live?
Rats are found all around the world. They can live in many different places.
- They often build nests in burrows, under buildings, or in forests.
- Brown rats prefer places near water, like riverbanks or cities.
- White and fancy rats live in homes with people as pets.
What Do Rats Eat?
Rats are not picky eaters. They eat lots of different foods.
- They eat grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- They will also eat cheese or crumbs from human food.
- In nature, they sometimes eat insects and seeds.
How Big Is a Rat?
Rats are small but a bit bigger than a hamster.
- A typical brown rat is about 20 cm long (8 in), without the tail.
- They weigh around 300 g (about the weight of a small apple).
- Baby rats are only a few grams—tiny like a paperclip!
What Sound Do Rats Make?
Rats make many sounds to talk to other rats or show how they feel. You can hear squeaks, chirps, and even tiny laughs when they play.
Cool Rat Facts
Rats are amazing animals with lots of fun surprises!
- Rats can laugh when tickled—but only in squeaky sounds we need special tools to hear.
- They share food with each other as a sign of friendship.
- They are great swimmers and can hold their breath for up to three minutes.
- Rats use their sharp teeth to chew through almost anything because their teeth keep growing.
- They love to explore and are very good at finding their way home.
- Some rats can learn to come when you call their name—just like a dog!
Printables and Coloring Fun
Have fun drawing and coloring your own rat picture!
Rats in the Eco-System
Rats play an important role in nature and in our world.
- They help clean up by eating seeds and waste, which helps keep things tidy.
- They are food for many animals like owls, foxes, and snakes.
- There are many rats—billions all around the world, so they are not endangered.
Ask a Grown‑Up to Help You Learn More
You can read more cool rat facts with a grown‑up’s help.
Fun Questions About Rats
Baby rats drink their mother’s milk and later eat soft foods like mashed fruits and baby cereal.
Yes, friendly rats make gentle pets that like to play and learn tricks.
Rats usually only bite if they are scared or feel hurt.
Pet rats live about 2 to 3 years with good care.
Yes, rats are very smart and can solve puzzles and remember paths.
Rats use their tails to keep balance and stay warm.
Many rats are strong swimmers and can hold their breath underwater.
No, rats are social and like to live with other rats or friendly people.
Ways to Donate and Support Rats
You can help protect rats in the wild and take care of pet rats by helping animal groups.
Sources: Wikipedia, Live Science, Creative Commons, Britannica.com and Freesound.org
Alphabetical list of animals that start with R
A full alphabetical list of popular animal names that begin with the letter R for toddlers and preschool kids.
- Rabbit
- Raccoon
- Ram
- Rat
- Rattlesnake
- Raven
- Ray
- Red Eyed Tree Frog
- Red Panda
- Reindeer
- Rhea
- Rhinoceros
- Rhinoceros Beetle
- River Dolphin
- Roadrunner
- Robin
- Rooster
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All animals A-Z
Animal phonics alphabet
Animals that start with common phonics digraphs
Animal facts for kids
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