Can Rats Drink Coffee?
WouterA recent study found that rats that drink two cups of coffee a day develop a more spatial part of their brains. However, the exact effects on humans are unknown. The researchers used lower doses of caffeine than humans consume, and measured electrical responses of cells in the rats’ brains. Nonetheless, the research is not without controversy.
The researchers used rats as a model to study the effects of coffee on the body weight, fast serum glucose, uric acid, and lipid profile in rats. The researchers found that coffee reduced body weight in male rats, although the effect was not statistically significant. The results of the study are not immediately applicable to humans, but they will provide a helpful guide for researchers who wish to understand the effects of caffeine in humans.
Coffee grounds have been used to repel household pests such as mice and rats. The strong smell of coffee grounds attracts rodents away from food sources. Moreover, the used grounds are an excellent source of compost. Starbucks, for instance, offers free bags for used coffee grounds. However, more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of coffee grounds as a natural rodent repellent.
Caffeine is poisonous to rats. It can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and even seizures. It is especially harmful to male rats. Also, citrus fruits, such as mango skin, contain d-limonene, a chemical that can cause kidney damage in male rats. The chemical can also damage the heart, liver, and other organs.
