Due to Natal rats being very new to the pet trade, very few types and colors are known in this species. There are no written standards for reputable pet breeders to use as a guide in their goals to domesticate these rodents. Instead, we have a few markings and color types, as well as two different coat types.

Agouti or "Wild Type"
Agouti, or "Wild Type" is the common color of Natal rats in the wild.
The coat is a dark brown with black ticking throughout the fur. The belly of the animal is a lighter color than the rest (AA.)

Picture shows Dusty of TRT - agouti spot male.

Cinnamon
Cinnamon s a rich, rusty brown version of agouti. There will be no black ticking at all, as it has been replaced with brown (bb.)

Picture shows Teller Joe of TRT - cinnamon spot male.

Argente
Argente is a pink-eyed variety with a pale yellow coat and bluish undercoat (pp.)

Picture shows TRT Missus Clause - argente badger female.

Lilac

This color tends to change during first molt in the baby Natal rat. Color starts out as a dove gray with bright ruby eyes. After first molt, a brown under coat and ticking developes. Ruby eyes get darker, but do not turn black.

Picture shows TRT's Mister Kringles - lilac self male

Markings

Self

"Self" consists of the entire body of the same color. This marking can come in all colors that we know of to date.

Picture shows TRT's Mister Kringles - lilac self male

Badger

The Badger marking should consist of mostly one solid color, with white on forehead, cheeks, and belly. The white can sometimes crop up on the rump, or cause minor varigation on the sides. This marking can be found in all colors.

Picture shows TRT's Mary Christmas - Cinnamon Badger female.

Spot

The spotted marking is similar to the pied, but with more color. Spots should be on the face, casuing a "multiple eyes" look, and the white rump can be spotted. The spot marking can be found in all colors.

Picture shows Afrika of TRT - Agouti Spot female

Pied

Pied consists of a white head, rump, and most of the belly. Color can run from the back of the neck to the waist, and sometimes to the lower rump. Usually there is no spotting on the rump or face.

Coat Types

Smooth Coat

Smooth coats are similar to domestic mice and rats' standard coats. They are short, sleek, and soft to the touch.

Picture shows TRT's Misses Clause - Argente badger female

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