Mice and rats are both rodents, look strikingly similar, and belong to the same family. When they are young, they can even be impossible to tell apart, which is why people usually use the terms “rat” and “mouse” interchangeably for the two species. However, there are some key differences between the two. Check them out.
Size
The easiest way to distinguish a mouse from a rat is by their size. Rats are a lot bigger, reaching lengths of 15 to 18 inches and weighing 14 to 24 ounces. Mice, on the other hand, are one to seven inches long and weigh less than an ounce.
Facial Features
Mice have a pointy snout and long whiskers while rats have a blunt snout. Additionally, mice have floppy and long ears while rats have smaller ears compared to the size of their head.
Behavior
Mice and rats have a significantly different behavior. Mice tend to be curious and territorial while rats are usually more cautious about unfamiliar situations and settings and are more social.
Diet
While mice and rats share some dietary habits, they also differ in what they prefer to munch on. Mice love grains, nuts, and veggies while also being fond of cheese, but not as much as cartoons lead us to believe. Rats, on the other hand, love meat and cheese and will gladly steal pet food if they spot it.
