Rats generally have short lifespans, with significant differences between wild and domesticated rats:
- Domesticated (Pet) Rats: Typically live between 2 to 4 years, with some reaching up to 5 years or even 7 years in rare cases. Female rats often live longer and mature earlier than males. Proper care, including a balanced diet, protection from predators, a controlled environment, and veterinary care, can extend their lifespan
- Wild Rats: Usually live less than 1 to 2 years due to predation, disease, food scarcity, harsh environmental conditions, and lack of veterinary care. Their lifespan is much shorter compared to pet rats because of these survival challenges
In summary, pet rats live about 2 to 4 years on average, while wild rats typically survive less than a year, sometimes up to 2 years under favorable conditions
