How long do rats live?

Rats are resilient creatures, adapting to various environments with remarkable survival skills. Let’s dive into the world of rats and explore the many factors that influence their longevity.

Average lifespan of rats in the wild

Wild rats face various environmental challenges, which typically shortens their lifespan. Exposure to predators, parasites, diseases, and limited food resources impact how long they survive in the wild.

Roof rats

Roof rats (Rattus rattus), also known as black rats, are common in warmer regions and can often be found nesting in attics, roofs, and trees. Due to predation and environmental hazards, roof rats in the wild usually live for about one year. This shorter life expectancy is largely due to threats from predators and other natural dangers.

Norway rats

Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus), often called brown rats, are the most common rat species in the United States. They tend to live in burrows or other areas close to the ground. In the wild, Norway rats also face numerous threats and typically live around one year as well. Predation, weather conditions, and limited food supply all play a part in their survival rate.

Lifespan of rats in captivity

When kept in captivity, rats are provided with proper care, including regular food, a clean environment, and protection from predators, significantly increasing their lifespan.

Roof rats vs. Norway rats in captivity

In captivity, both roof rats and Norway rats can live much longer than in the wild, often reaching two to three years. These rats are less likely to suffer from parasites and have a reliable food source, which helps extend their life expectancy.

Pet rats

Pet rats, often referred to as "fancy rats," are domesticated versions of common wild species, like Norway rats. With veterinary care, a balanced diet, and a safe environment, pet rats can live up to two to four years. Some types, such as hairless rats, may require extra care due to skin sensitivities and other health issues. Female rats and males may differ slightly in lifespan due to factors like genetics and reproductive activity.

Life cycle of rats

The rat life cycle is rapid, especially in the wild, allowing rat populations to grow quickly.

Birth and development

Rats are born blind, hairless, and entirely dependent on their mother. Within weeks, they grow fur, open their eyes, and become mobile. This rapid development period makes rats highly adaptable and quick to mature.

Sexual maturity and reproduction

Rats reach sexual maturity around five weeks of age. This early maturity allows them to reproduce frequently, making it essential for those looking to control rat populations to address infestations quickly.

Reproduction rates

Rats are prolific breeders, and females can produce multiple litters each year. A single litter can contain six to twelve pups, depending on the species and environmental conditions. This high reproduction rate contributes to the rapid expansion of rat populations and the persistence of infestations.

How long can rats live without food or water?

Rats are highly adaptive creatures capable of surviving in tough conditions. Like all mammals, they need food and water to survive.

Without food

Depending on the species and environmental conditions, rats can survive for about four days without food. They are scavengers by nature and can quickly seek alternative food sources, which makes them particularly resilient in urban areas.

Without water

Water is essential for rats' survival, as they rely on it to maintain hydration. Rats may live without water for a short amount of time by getting moisture from food, but they need proper access to water to maintain their overall health and will not survive for long without it.

Survival adaptations

Rats have evolved various adaptations to thrive in challenging environments. For instance, they can gnaw through materials like plastic and wood to access food, and they often establish multiple nesting sites to ensure safety from predators.

Factors that affect a rat’s lifespan

Several factors impact the lifespan of both wild and domesticated rats. While rats in the wild face threats like predation, domesticated rats may face health risks that limit their lifespan.

Predation and threats in the wild

Predators such as owls, snakes, and larger mammals significantly affect the survival of wild rats. These natural predators keep wild rat populations in check and limit individual lifespans by preying on vulnerable rats.

Disease and health issues

Rats are susceptible to various diseases, including respiratory infections, parasites like tapeworms, and tumors. These health risks, particularly in the wild, naturally decrease their life expectancy. Pet rats, though sheltered, may still develop health problems that require veterinary care to manage.

Environment and living conditions

A rat’s environment also heavily influences its lifespan. For wild rats, harsh weather, limited food, and exposure to harmful chemicals or predators are all factors that limit survival. In contrast, domesticated rats, living in clean, stable environments with access to proper care, tend to live much longer.

Need help with rat pest control?

If you’re dealing with a rat infestation, professional pest control from Ehrlich can help remove these pests safely and effectively. Signs of rats in your home may include gnawed surfaces, droppings, and scratching sounds. Ehrlich’s professional rat extermination services can identify entry points, remove nests, and implement strategies to prevent re-infestation.

For more information on rat control, see our article on how to get rid of rats.