Why Don't Pet Rats Have Fur on Their Tails?

It's hard for many people to accept pet rats. They are viewed as dirty, diseased, and gross by many although these are false accusations. The reality is that they make great companions and are highly intelligent pets. I may be somewhat biased owning a rat myself and having worked with dozens of sweet natured pet rats. It seems that the physical feature that bugs people the most is their hairless tails. I've met many people who just can't get over their long naked tails.

Pet rat. Photo via Tomi Tapio K

So why don't pet rats have fur on their tails anyways? Rats need their hairless tails in order to survive. There are two very good reasons why pet rats do not have fur on their tails.

Rat Tails Regulate Body Temperature

Rats don't sweat like humans or pant like dogs. They can also overheat very easily. Their tails help them release excess body heat when they are hot. Pet rats use their tails to regulate their body temperature put quite simply. If they had fluffy tails, they would become overheated quickly. So this is the first reason why pet rats don't have fur on their tail. 

Rats Use Their Tails For Balance

Rats actually do have hair on their tails. They have very short and stubby bristles on their tail. These tiny hairs help them to keep their balance. The hairs kind of stick to things helping the rat cross narrow paths or climb around. Rats will wrap their tails around things when they are climbing or trying to balance on something and the little sticky hairs are just an added bonus. If their tails were fluffy and furry they would be too slick to grip onto things.  

Rat tails. Photo via surprise truck

So there you have it! Those are the reasons why pet rats don't have fur on their tails. Hopefully this can help some people overcome the whole "tail not being visually appealing thing". Just think of a rat's tail as an important survival tool to them. And remember - it's what on the inside that counts!