Fancy Rat Variety · Domesticated brown rat (variety, not a separate breed)
Hooded
A coloured head and shoulders with a stripe down the spine — a classic rat marking.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Hooded rat is a marking variety with a coloured head and shoulders (the 'hood') and a coloured stripe running down an otherwise white back. The amount of stripe varies from bird to bird.
Hooded: At a Glance
| Origin | Domesticated brown rat (variety, not a separate breed) |
|---|---|
| Size | Small (body 20–25 cm plus tail) |
| Typical weight | Does 250–400 g; bucks 350–550 g |
| Lifespan | 2–3 years (occasionally longer) |
| Coat & markings | White body with a coloured head, shoulders and dorsal stripe |
| Temperament | Curious, friendly, playful |
| Best suited to | Older children and adults; must be kept in same-sex groups, never alone |
History & Origins
Hooded is one of the oldest and most recognisable rat markings, common in laboratory and pet lines. The width and length of the dorsal stripe vary, and show standards favour an even, unbroken line. It appears in many colours.
Hooded Fun Facts
- The 'hood' covers the head and shoulders, with a stripe down the back.
- No two hooded rats have an identical stripe.
- Hooded markings appear in lab strains as well as pet rats.
- Show standards prefer a straight, unbroken stripe.
Hooded Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Respiratory disease (mycoplasma)
Most pet rats carry Mycoplasma pulmonis, which can flare into sneezing, laboured breathing and a clicking chest, especially in dusty or ammonia-rich cages.
Care: Use low-dust bedding, keep cages clean and well-ventilated, and see an exotics vet early for antibiotics.
Mammary tumours
Rats commonly develop mammary lumps — usually benign fibroadenomas but sometimes malignant — that can grow large.
Care: An exotics vet can remove tumours surgically; spaying females greatly reduces the risk.
Pituitary tumours
Hormone-driven brain tumours cause weakness, wobbliness and difficulty using the front paws in older rats.
Care: There is no easy cure; a vet can advise on supportive care and quality-of-life decisions.
Help animals in need
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