Wistar

Wistar is a long-established outbred albino laboratory rat stock of Rattus norvegicus, developed for research use and still common in physiology, pharmacology, toxicology, neuroscience, and reproductive studies. Wistar rats are often recognized by their white coat, pink eyes, broad head, and robust build, though exact traits vary by colony and supplier. They are a stock, not a closed show breed.

Because Wistar rats are outbred, colony management focuses on maintaining healthy diversity while keeping the stock recognizable and well documented. Housing should allow social behavior, enrichment, and safe handling, with attention to weight and respiratory health. Anyone comparing Wistar animals across studies or breeding programs should record supplier, barrier status, diet, age, and sex, since those details can shape outcomes as much as the stock name.

Colors: Albino