84 Best Rat Tattoo Designs & Ideas for Men and Women

Are you thinking of getting a rat tattoo? Well, it’s not easy to decide what to get. There are a lot of rat-themed tattoo designs out there, so take some time to see what’s on the market before you make the big decision. There are a lot of different tattoo designs that could go with a tattoo of a rat.

We conduct extensive research on the internet and compile a collection of the top rat-related tattoo designs such as rat fink, rat a tat, river rat, traditional, rat king, and many others. 

However, we strongly advise you to view no. 20 to no. 30 tattoos are trending among the youthful population. Furthermore, these tattoos are suitable for both men and women who want to express their personal struggles in life.

Here are The Top 84 Rat tattoo Tattoo Designs and ideas:

Some people like rats, and some people can’t stand them. But, it’s hard to deny that rats are funny creatures, no matter your opinion. Here are some best rat themed tattoo designs and ideas that will put a smile on your face.

Rat Fink Tattoo

The Rat Fink tattoo is a popular tattoo based on hot rod Rockabilly culture. And it is a common tattoo among musicians because it signifies their skill and dedication to the craft.

  1. RF Green
rat-fink-tattoo--1
Source: workofarttattoo

That RF Green rat looks straight-up shocked in its orange getup, all vibrant green fur popping against the orange. Crisp lines make the terror feel real—special for its bold color clash that screams “surprise attack.” Suits guys who dig quirky humor. It’s on an arm in the pic; forearm’s prime spot for that flex.

2. Moon Rat

rat-fink-tattoo--2
Source: connie.oneill15

Rat riding a vehicle with wings and wearing a 423 hat. This tattoo shows love for hot rod Rockabilly culture and is perfect for a woman’s thigh.

3. RF Flies

rat-fink-tattoo--3
Source: skunkartdesign

RF Flies has this red-black rat baring fangs at buzzing pests, detailing so sharp you hear the swarm. The fear-face mix is killer, standing out for pest-phobia vibes. Fits bold dudes facing daily chaos. Upper arm sleeve in view; bicep’s ideal to build the drama.

Rat A Tat Tattoo

Rat A Tat Tattoos are a way to express yourself while staying true to your personal style. Tattoos are often worn to convey a specific message or feeling, but some people also wear them for fun.

4. Red Eye Rat

rat-a-tat-tattoo--1
Source: inkkhalatattoovegan

Red Eye Rat’s a scarred black fury machine, eyes glowing crimson like battle prep. Aggressive shading amps the justice warrior feel—special for its raw scar story. For fighters owning their grit. No spot shown, but chest hits hard to center the rage.

5. Oxygen Rat

rat-a-tat-tattoo--2
Source: wkt_wauchope

Oxygen Rat’s clawing upward, gasping like it’s mid-mountain hell. Subtle struggle lines highlight endurance—unique as a quiet triumph symbol. Suits climbers or anyone grinding life. Arm placement implied; calf’s great for that upward climb illusion.

6. Little Rat

rat-a-tat-tattoo--3
Source: adrian.luthius.tattoo

Little Rat’s a tiny black-and-white hunter with eyes that pierce, mid-prowl for scraps. Delicate shading on the gaze makes it intimate—stands out for subtle mischief. Ideal for petite souls loving whimsy. Forearm glimpse; wrist suits to keep it sneaky small.

River Rat Tattoo

A river rat tattoo typically represents an individual living in the wild, often through hunting and gathering. It is a great option for someone who wants a tattoo representing their personality and individuality.

7. Black White Rat

river-rat-tattoo--1
Source: pokesbyalex_

Black White Rat pairs a flower-clutching black one with a stark white buddy, contrasts popping life’s duality. The bloom adds soft irony—special for balance seekers. For reflective types pondering opposites. Shoulder view; upper back’s best to spread the duo.

8. Fat Rat

river-rat-tattoo--2
Source: quinntattooz

Fat Rat’s this chunky R.R.-stamped terror, belly bulging with menace. Bold outlines exaggerate the heft—unique river rat badge for locals. Hits for burly humor lovers. Thigh shown; lower leg amps the grounded bulk.

9. Tree rat

river-rat-tattoo--3
Source: tammy.kk.roberts

A rat climbing a tree branch and attempting to reach its summit looks fantastic. This tattoo is suitable for a girl’s chest or the upper hand sleeve to express passion for progressing to the next level.

Rat King Tattoo

The Rat King tattoo is an interesting choice for a tattoo. It can be an interesting take on a tattoo that shows you’re not afraid to take risks. The rat is a well-known symbol of luck and good fortune in the world.

10. Crown Rat

rat-king-tattoo--1
Source: lolatattoos

Crown Rat’s on a wish-granting quest, crown sparkling magic. Fantastical glow in the details—stands out for optimists manifesting dreams. For hopeful wanderers. Arm implied; collarbone lets the crown shine regally.

11. Star Rat

rat-king-tattoo--2
Source: jynxedtattoo

Star Rat’s five linked rodents topped by a crowned leader, forming a stellar shape. Symbolic shading ties the group—unique loyalty emblem for crews. Suits tight-knit squads. No placement, but shoulder blade clusters them tight.

12. King Rat

rat-king-tattoo--3
Source: nauseous_wizard

King Rat roars lion-style under its crown, rules etched in every whisker. Regal ferocity in the pose—special mindset booster for self-sovereigns. For alpha spirits. Forearm view; tricep roars back with movement.

Heart Rate Tattoo

Heart Rate Tattoos are a way to display your love for someone or something. These tattoos are a way to show how much you care about someone. Check out these handy heart rate tattoo designs and ideas.

13. Lazlo

heart-rate-tattoo--1
Source: moonflaws.tattoos

Lazlo’s two rats pawing a heart, hinting at family sparks. Romantic lines in the feet—unique love nest signal for breeders. Fits couple goals or parent pride. Wrist shown; inner arm keeps the intimacy close.

14. Star Rat

heart-rate-tattoo--2
Source: her_tattooartist

Star Rat here’s a lollipop-licking girl rat framed by a star, colors soft and sweet. Pleasing patterns in the candy swirl—special girly charm for fun-lovers. Young women crushing it. Thigh glance; hip bone pops the star sparkle.

15. Love Prison

heart-rate-tattoo--3
Source: viktory.ink

Love Prison’s a realistic jailbreak rat, bars bending under its push. Detailed escape grit—stands out for fierce independence anthems. Independent women breaking chains. No spot, but ankle twists free with every step.

Cute Rat Tattoo

The rat tattoo is one of the most popular tattoos for men and women. You may need some design inspiration if you consider getting a rat-themed tattoo. Here are some cute rat tattoo designs and ideas.

16. Rat Fight

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Source: ola.krupnikandpatogentattoo_gdansk

We can observe two rats gazing at each other as though they are about to fight. This tattoo’s black color scheme and embellishments make it more distinctive and stylish.

17. Princess Rat

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Source: zoefowletattoo

A black baby rat wearing a princess crown is adorable. This tattoo represents a couple’s love for their new kid and may be worn on either male or female hands.

18. Dancing Rat

cute-rat-tattoo--3
Source: cierahighart

A young girl rat dancing with a love sign on it tells us a narrative. This tattoo depicts a girl’s enthusiasm for dance and her desire to pursue it professionally.

Rat City Tattoo

Rat City Tattoo is a design company founded in the United States specializing in tattoo designs that are bold and memorable. There is a wide variety of tattoo ideas to choose from, as well as a selection of drawings and paintings.

19. Anti Nowhere

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Source: pirriskin.tattoo

A pink-colored rat wearing a jacket with the words “Anti Nowhere League” written on it appears to be a gang member. This tattoo symbolizes gang culture and a certain neighborhood.

20. Explorer Rat

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Source: pirriskin.tattoo

A rat is off on a long journey with its bag searching for the meaning of life. This tattoo reminds us that we must constantly keep moving and never stop if we want to attain our objective.

21. Clever Rat

rat-city-tattoo--3
Source: pirriskin.tattoo

A pink rat has a plan to do something but becomes confused. This tattoo reminds us to be confident in our life decisions and always choose the best path.

Traditional Rat Tattoo

The rat-themed tattoo is often associated with the African-American community, a cultural tradition that has been present for centuries. Many people choose to get a tattoo of a rat for its aesthetic appeal and its symbolism of the rat’s tenacity and longevity.

22. Furious Rat

traditional-rat-tattoo--1
Source: shackledoldman

A black rat that is enraged and ready to bite appears deadly. This tattoo depicts a man’s rage or how to channel that fury for good. Rat lovers can have this tattoo on their sleeves.

23. Fury Rat

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Source: mogielnik

A big rat hunting its prey with a typical black color pattern looks fantastic. This tattoo teaches us endurance and the importance of patience to achieve success in life.

24. Rat Circle

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Source: inga.marx

A rat attempts to escape from a circle to enjoy its freedom. This tattoo demonstrates that men value independence and wish to live their lives on their own terms, and it is a traditional symbol of freedom.

Rat Rod Tattoo

Rat Rod Tattoos are a popular tattoo idea, especially for women. They are often a representation of one’s personality and life experience. They can symbolize a wild past, a glamorous life as a Hollywood starlet, or a wild, rebellious spirit.

25. Rat 76

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Source: francescobiundo__

A fast vintage automobile with the number 76 looks terrific. The vehicle’s design pattern and color mix make it an ideal Rat Rod Tattoo. This tattoo represents the fast pace of life and the will to keep going.

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Source: elmagoartem

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Source: biddy_tattoo

Dead Rat Tattoo

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Source: v_victor_tattoos

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Source: furhouse

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Source: bigdeluxetattoo

Rat Skeleton Tattoo

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Source: twiggzy_tattoos

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Source: martyna_vejelis

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Source: 5tinyknives

Rat Terrier Tattoo

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Source: luckysoultattoo

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Source: davewalztattoos

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Source: coziestattoo

Japanese Rat Tattoo

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Source: kaya.notte.blu

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Source: pssywzrd

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Source: yamiyou.tattoo

Minimalist Rat Tattoo

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Source: dreamfactorylucy

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Source: mccollumtattoo

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Source: nezumi.tattoos

American Traditional Rat Tattoo

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Source: kenxie.tattoos

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Source: livocallaghan

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Source: agrentattoo

Rat Skull Tattoo

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Source: drew._.browning

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Source: josie.tattoos

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Source: mattakustattoo

Matching Rat Tattoos

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Source: osmiantto

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Source: liwka.tatuaze

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Source: beach.wolf

Chinese Zodiac Rat Tattoo

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Source: kenobrero_tattooer

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Source: nauseous_wizard

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Source: nicolevtattoos

Desert Rat Tattoo

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Source: cardinamita

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Source: al_lytle_stuttertattoo

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Source: 17.year.cicada

Rat Paw Print Tattoo

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Source: nikkiheritattoos

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Source: iva_tattoos

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Source: sararosaart

Rat Trap Tattoo

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Source: theweirdtattoos

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Source: slimjonesink

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Source: balaguer.tattoo

Banksy Rat Tattoo

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Source: spontaneous_kitty

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Source: katdemon_ink

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Source: jessetruyensttt

Cartoon Rat Tattoo

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Source: reggie_tattoo

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Source: kelpiebat

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Source: nickweavertattoos

Mickey Rat Tattoo

70.

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Source: trashtalker_tattoo

71.

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Source: hello_kerry_tattoos

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Source: robryant_tattoos

Rat Daddy Tattoo

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Source: blackchariottattoo

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Source: tudyart

75.

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Source: davedarlow_tbr

Rat Face Tattoo

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Source: cesytattoo

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Source: orla.tattoo

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Source: labombalocatattoo

Rat Tail Tattoo

79.

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Source: noe.mtattoo

80.

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Source: mary_jka

This one’s a sleek, elongated rat tail curling like a whip, shaded in fine black lines with subtle texture for a lifelike twist. It’s minimalist yet edgy, perfect for urban explorers or zodiac skeptics who dig subtle rebellion. Suits guys with a streetwise vibe best. Seen snaking along a forearm here; that’s prime spot too—easy to show off or hide under sleeves

81.

rat-tail-tattoo-3
Source: rowanmcculloch

Curvy rat tail design with bolder outlines and faint cross-hatching for depth, evoking a sneaky midnight vibe without the full animal. What stands out is its fluid motion, ideal for free spirits embracing clever chaos. Best for women who own their quirky side. Appears wrapped around a calf in the pic; thighs work even better for that elongated flow

Chinese Rat Tattoo

82.

chinese-rat-tattoo--1
Source: bini_k.attoo

Bold zodiac rat in traditional ink style, ears perked and whiskers sharp, done in stark black with red accents on the eyes for cultural pop. The fusion of ancient symbolism and modern edge makes it pop—great for heritage holders or astrology buffs. Fits ambitious types, men or women. Shown on a shoulder blade; back panels are optimal to let the details breathe

83.

chinese-rat-tattoo--2
Source: ellepoke.tat

Intricate rat silhouette inspired by lunar calendar motifs, with swirling patterns around the tail and fine dotwork fur. Its mystical aura shines through the layered shading, suiting introspective souls who nod to roots without shouting. Women with artistic souls would rock this. Visible on the wrist in the image; inner forearms enhance the elegant wrap

84.

chinese-rat-tattoo--3
Source: vomit.bucket

Playful yet fierce rat in neo-traditional strokes, grinning with exaggerated fangs and bold linework in black and muted gold tones. The cheeky symbolism of wit and survival hooks survivors at heart. Ideal for bold men channeling inner hustlers. Displayed across a bicep; upper arms flex the design’s dynamic energy best

Final Words:

We hope you enjoyed our blog post on the top rat tattoo designs. We know that getting a tattoo can be a big decision, so we wanted to provide a list of some of the top tattoo designs you might be interested in. 

If these designs don’t match your tattoo style, browse our blog for more tattoo ideas. Contact us in the comment section if you’re unsure where to start. Thank you for reading; we hope to hear from you soon!

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a rat tattoo mean?

A rat tattoo might represent cultural heritage, cleverness, or good fortune.

Author

  • Harvey Hanks

    Harvey is a dedicated tattoo blogger who loves uncovering the history, symbolism, and artistry behind body ink. With a passion for storytelling, he explores the cultural significance of tattoos, interviews top artists, and shares practical advice for those looking to get their next piece. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just tattoo-curious, Harvey’s write-up is your guide to the world of ink.

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