Can Rats Feel Pain?
WouterIt has been debated whether rodents can feel pain or not. A new study suggests that the answer may be in the negative. Researchers analyzed the genes responsible for the TrkA receptor, which is present in both rats and mice, to determine how they respond to pain. The researchers found that a small change in one section of the receptor in the naked mole rat causes it to be less sensitive. While the change is small, it makes a significant difference in how sensitive the rodent is to pain.
When a rat is in pain, they may exhibit unusual behaviors. They may make sounds or cry, and they may have difficulty eating. You can also listen for subtle changes, like squinting eyes. It may even be that the rat is refusing food. While this is not always a sign of pain, it may mean that it’s suffering from something serious.
This type of pain is caused by the same process that causes humans to feel pain. It involves a process called “thermal hyperalgesia”. The human brain detects pain by binding to the TrkA receptor and triggering chemical signals. These chemicals then stimulate the TRPV1 ion channel on the surface of the sensory nerve. This causes the nerve to fire and tells the brain that it is experiencing pain at normal temperature.
If your rat shows signs of a sprain or torn nail, you should consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. A sprain or a broken nail can be treated with medication, but a rat suffering from a fracture or bumblefoot may need further testing.
