Why Do Rats Grind Their Teeth?

Rats grind their teeth to show that they’re happy, and this behavior is often similar to cats’ purring. If you see a rat perched on your shoulder, it may not be obvious that it’s grinding its teeth. However, if you notice that your rat has a shaky jaw, it’s likely that it’s grinding its teeth.

Rats have 16 teeth: four incisors on top and bottom, and twelve molars on each side. The gnawing and grinding that they do helps keep these teeth sharp and prevent overgrowth. Without bruxing, these teeth would grow into a spiral shape, which would prevent the rat from closing its mouth properly and would result in a rapid death.

Another characteristic of rats is their eyes, which move rapidly in and out of their sockets. While rat teeth grinding helps them maintain a healthy mouth, they also cause the eyes to bulge. Rats are more likely to grind their teeth when they’re relaxed. This movement is often accompanied by the bulging of the eyeballs, which is a rat’s way of showing that it’s happy and healthy.

Another possible cause of rats grinding their teeth is illness. Rats can develop tumors and other conditions that stress their bodies. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your rat to a veterinarian immediately.