How Long Do Rats Live?

Rats live a short life in the wild, but in captivity, they can survive for up to eight years and produce up to fourteen offspring. Though rats are often considered pests, they are also loyal and loving pets. Though they are born without their senses and without a walking ability, they begin to grow and see after a week. Once they reach maturity, they begin hauling food.

The length of a rat’s life depends on its habitat. They begin life in litters of six or eleven siblings. These babies are blind and bald and unable to support themselves, but grow into adult rats in a short period of time. The average lifespan of a female rat is around 485 days.

Young rats reach sexual maturity at around six weeks. This age varies from one rat to another, but is closely associated with adolescence. During the adolescent years, rats will begin to show signs of sexual maturity such as risk-taking and socializing with other rats. This period lasts for about a year, and a single rat may develop sexually for more than one year.

Rats over a year of age can become less active and may develop common health issues. Older rats tend to lose muscle mass and body weight. They may also show signs of arthritis. In addition, their hind limbs can become weaker and their tail may become abnormally long. Aging rats can be hard to detect, however, because their bodies hide symptoms of illness.