Five things you may not have know about rodents

These little creatures, which we have adopted as full-fledged pets, the same as cats and dogs, are much more interesting than seems at first glance. What are the five peculiarities associated with the most numerous order of mammals, which every animal enthusiast should know about? Let's brush up on our knowledge a bit.

Mice and their poor eyesight
Mice are known for their extremely well-developed hearing. This allows them to detect movement from up to twenty meters away. As for their eyesight, it is a slightly different story. Mice are short-sighted and their sharp vision ends past half a metre. Also their colour vision is limited as they are naturally dichromatic - there are only two spectral cone types that are sensitive to blue or green light, and they completely lack the receptors for perceiving red colour. Due to their small black eyes, which are very sensitive to bright daylight, these tiny fluff balls are active mainly at night or they prefer dark nooks and crannies. As you probably know, it is difficult to catch sight of them during the day.

Mice, rats and their memory of an elephant
Do you know why are rats and mice regularly used for various tests and experiments? It is because of their incredible memory. And compared to other animals, they are highly trainable. One of the reasons scientists often use them for their experiments is that they always remember the way to their food. 

No need to drink
How is it possible that mice do not need to drink much? They hydrate through food. Yes, for example, they get water from grains. However, this does not change the fact that, unlike other creatures, they are able to find water almost anywhere. 

Rodents' front teeth - their biggest asset
The absolutely unique feature of rodents are their front teeth. They grow continuously throughout their whole life and because they can grow by up to 15 centimetres a year, rodents regularly grind them. These small mammals keep their two pairs of sharp and strong incisors in a good condition, mainly because they use them not only for eating but also to gnaw through various openings, wood as well as plastic or concrete. Teeth are therefore rodents' most frequently used body part.

Rodent - a sociable creature
Wherever you see one, you can expect many others. There is a simple rule that applies to rodents - they form colonies. They are sociable creatures. Same as bees they also prefer to work in groups and divide work within their colonies. It is rare for an individual to move away from its base. 

Related articles

Cat on a leash: How to do it?

Cats love fresh air. At least most of them do. However, not all of them have the opportunity to enjoy freedom in nature. Especially cats living in cities spend a lot of time indoors without the opportunity to run freely. That is why cat owners may...

Interactive toys for dogs

It is a well-known fact that every dog likes to play. However, not all dog owners use the option of interactive toys. These toys, in addition to being fun and an outlet for energy, also offer the possibility of development. They have a positive effect...

Dog hygiene: Proper dog care

Our pets are often members of our families, so it goes without saying that we want to give them the same privileges and comforts as anyone else. Although we couldn’t imagine it in the beginning, our canine companions follow us everywhere. On the...

CBD Products: When can they be beneficial?

We usually want only the best for our pets. That is why we often look for ways to improve their quality of life and make sure to support their health as much as possible. We feed them with the best on the market, include regular walks and activities...

Dogdartbee: When a disc is thrown at a target

In this next part of our series dedicated to dogfrisbee, an activity where the dog is thrown a disc, which he then catches and brings back, we focus on the discipline of Dogdartbee. This discipline comes from the Netherlands and its main essence is...

Felinotherapy – When Cats Heal

Like dogs, even cats may have therapeutic effects on patients. This treatment method is called felinotherapy and is suitable for both chronically ill patients, who may need help with coping, and those who suffer from long-term stress. Cats can bring...

Choosing a puppy: What to consider?

Sharing a home with a puppy is a great joy as well as worry. Especially if you have no previous experience with a dog or other domestic animal. Before getting a puppy, you should take into account a number of things, think about them carefully and...