Rat Chinese Zodiac: in Family Life

Those born in the Year of the Rat are quick-witted, resourceful and adaptable. This makes them reliable company, natural problem-solvers and people others instinctively trust.

The Rat temperament

Those born in the Year of the Rat are quick-witted, resourceful and adaptable. This makes them reliable company, natural problem-solvers and people others instinctively trust.

Rat in Family Life

Family is where the animal is most visible, because it is the setting you learned your habits in. Most of what reads as personality here is actually practice.

In love, the Rat is devoted and protective. They build relationships patiently and value loyalty above flash.

The pattern here is recognisable once you know the animal. The Rat does not change character between settings; the setting changes what the character costs.

What to watch for

Related readings

More on the Rat: Rat zodiac · all Chinese zodiac signs · zodiac compatibility

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if I am a Rat?

Your animal is set by your Chinese lunar birth year, which usually starts in late January or February rather than on 1 January. If you were born in January or February, check the exact lunar new year date for your year.

Is the year animal the whole picture?

No. A full Chinese astrology reading uses your month, day and hour as well, giving four animals rather than one.

Does the Rat change year to year?

No — your animal is fixed at birth. What changes is the yearly cycle around it.