Annual observance

World Rat Day

April 4 Pets / Animals Updated 2025-12-17

This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.

Overview

World Rat Day is celebrated annually on April 4th, established in 2002 by rat enthusiasts in the USA. It aims to recognize and appreciate rats as intelligent, clean, and social companion animals, challenging common misconceptions and promoting responsible pet ownership. The day encourages people to learn more about these often misunderstood creatures and celebrate their unique qualities.

Observed each year on April 4, World Rat Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: World Rat Day, observed on April 4, highlights the intelligence and social nature of rats, fostering a greater appreciation for these often-misunderstood pets. By promoting responsible ownership and awareness, the holiday challenges stereotypes and encourages a deeper understanding of the unique qualities that make rats valuable companions.

Origin and story

Rats are highly intelligent and can be trained to learn their names, perform tricks, and navigate complex mazes.

They are very social animals, forming strong bonds with their cage mates and human companions, and often display empathy towards others.

Quick facts

  • DateApril 4
  • TypePets / Animals
  • Great forPet parents, Shelters, Veterinarians

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Schedule a short playdate or walk with a rescue in mind.
  • Post a story with #world-rat-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.
  • Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the pets / animals vibe and make it a mini tradition.
  • World Rat Day lands on April 4 — host a quick nod with Pet parents, Shelters and snap a photo.
  • Donate supplies to a local shelter or foster program.

Fun facts

  • Rats are highly intelligent and can be trained to learn their names, perform tricks, and navigate complex mazes.
  • They are very social animals, forming strong bonds with their cage mates and human companions, and often display empathy towards others.
  • Despite popular belief, pet rats are meticulously clean creatures, spending several hours a day grooming themselves and their companions.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is World Rat Day?
It is observed on April 4 each year.
What is World Rat Day?
World Rat Day is celebrated annually on April 4th, established in 2002 by rat enthusiasts in the USA. It aims to recognize and appreciate rats as intelligent, clean, and social companion animals, challenging common misconceptions and promoting responsible pet ownership. The day encourages people to learn more about these often misunderstood creatures and celebrate their unique qualities.
How do people celebrate World Rat Day?
Schedule a short playdate or walk with a rescue in mind.

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