Domestic rats are highly intelligent, social animals whose welfare needs are frequently misunderstood, leading to preventable suffering in pet-keeping contexts.
Domestic rats are among the most intelligent and emotionally complex small pets, yet their welfare is poorly understood. They have been shown in research to help other trapped rats, demonstrate empathy, and feel positive emotions including what researchers describe as joy. Keeping rats alone is a significant welfare concern as they become depressed and develop health problems without companions. The short natural lifespan means owners face frequent grief, but also that quality of life during their brief lives is especially important.