Why Is a Baby Rat Called a Pup (Kitten)?

Q: What is a baby rat called?

A baby rat is called a pup (kitten). Rat pups are born hairless with their eyes sealed shut

Q: What other animals are called pup (kitten)s?

Yes! 13 animals share the baby name "Pup (Kitten)": bat, coyote, dog, guinea pig, hamster, meerkat, mouse, otter, rat, seal, shark, squirrel, wolf.

The story behind the baby animal name “Pup (Kitten)” — its origin, meaning, and history.

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Baby Animal Names Editorial Team

·Updated 2025

Quick Answer

A baby rat is called a pup (kitten). The name "Pup (Kitten)" has been used for baby rats for centuries.

The Origin of “Pup (Kitten)”

The baby animal name “Pup (Kitten)” for rats has deep roots in the English language. Like many baby animal names, it evolved from practical usage — people who worked closely with animals needed specific terms to describe their young.

Baby animal names often come from Old English, Latin, French, or indigenous languages. They reflect how humans have interacted with and categorized animals throughout history.

Other Animals Called “Pup (Kitten)”

“Pup (Kitten)” isn't unique to rats.13 animals share this baby name:

Wild Animals

Wild Animals

Farm Animals

Farm Animals

Farm Animals

Wild Animals

Farm Animals

Wild Animals

Sea Animals

Sea Animals

Squirrel → Pup (Kitten)

Wild Animals

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Wolf → Pup

Wild Animals

See all animals called “Pup (Kitten)” →

Fun Facts About Baby Rats

•Rat pups are born hairless with their eyes sealed shut
•They open their eyes at about 14 days old
•A rat can have 6-12 pups per litter
•Pups are weaned at just 3 weeks and can reproduce by 5 weeks

Did You Know?

Baby rats are called kittens or pups — and they can have babies of their own when they're just 5 weeks old!

How to Pronounce “Pup (Kitten)”