A rat’s lifespan is typically 2-3 years though some have been known to live up to 5 years. In captivity rats tend to live longer than they do in the wild as they are less likely to fall prey to predators or succumb to disease.
Rats are prolific breeders and litters of up to 12 young are not uncommon. Females may produce up to seven litters in their lifetime. As such the population of rats can increase rapidly if left unchecked.
Rats are intelligent creatures and can be trained to perform simple tasks. They are also highly sensitive to their environment and can make excellent pets.
How long do rats typically live?
A rat’s lifespan is usually 2-3 years.
What do rats typically die from?
The leading cause of death for rats is usually cancer.
Do male or female rats live longer?
There is no significant difference in lifespan between male and female rats.
How long do lab rats live?
Lab rats typically live 2-3 years.
How long do pet rats live?
Pet rats typically live 2-3 years.
How can I tell if my rat is nearing the end of its lifespan?
Some signs that a rat is nearing the end of its lifespan are decreased activity levels weight loss and graying fur.
Do rats age the same way humans do?
No rats age much more quickly than humans do.
How long do wild rats live?
Wild rats typically live 1-2 years.
How do rats in the wild compare to pet rats in terms of lifespan?
Wild rats typically live 1-2 years while pet rats typically live 2-3 years.
What is the difference between a rat’s lifespan in the wild versus in captivity?
Wild rats typically live 1-2 years while captive rats typically live 2-3 years.
How long do baby rats live?
Baby rats live for about 21 days.
How long do adolescent rats live?
Adolescent rats live for about 4-5 months.
How long do adult rats live?
Adult rats typically live 2-3 years.
How long do senior rats live?
Senior rats typically live for 1-2 years.
What is the oldest recorded age for a rat?
The oldest recorded age for a rat is 7 years and 3 months.
