Do Rats Understand Humans?
WouterA new study suggests that rats may have metamemory, a cognitive ability that helps them remember information or prior experiences. Although the rat brain is smaller than that of a human, it is designed in a similar manner. This finding could help researchers create better animal models of Alzheimer’s disease.
The researchers conducted experiments with 64 adult male rats. They used Japanese and Dutch, both of which they were familiar with, as well as backward speech, to train the rats to respond to words. They rewarded rats with food when they recognized a phrase. After training the rats to respond to the words, the researchers divided them into four groups, with one group hearing the language spoken by a native speaker, while the other three groups were given backwards speech.
In addition to the different types of sounds that rats make, they can also express emotions. One study found that rats can recognise pain expressions on the faces of other rats. Furthermore, rats have been found to laugh when tickled, a behavior that is impossible to detect by humans. Mice can also recognize their names, and respond to the sounds they hear. They also enjoy variety, and female mice vigorously defend their nests.
In spite of their small size, rats are very social animals and bond with their guardians. The animals can be trained to do many tasks and play games. They can be taught to fetch, catch a ball, and even drop a ball through a hoop. Moreover, they can be taught to respond to their name and can form a lifelong bond with their owners.
