Associated Holidays

All Halloween-like and Halloween related Holidays

Key Points / Halloween Connection

- Served as witch familiars and acted as plague and death carriers

Brief Bio

Historically, the association between rats and Halloween is rooted in their link to death, witches, and disease. However, the modern perception has broadened to include Halloween-themed celebrations by rat enthusiasts and owners.

Historical Association of Rats with Halloween

The traditional link between rats and spooky themes is based on folklore and historical events. 

Disease and Death: In medieval Europe, rats were linked to the spread of the bubonic plague, or "Black Death," which killed millions. This created a historical fear and association with disease and death that endures today.

Witches and Sorcery: Rats have long been considered familiars, or companions, of witches and were believed to be used in potions. This connection is a staple in many Halloween narratives and decorations.

Nocturnal Habits: Like other Halloween-themed animals such as bats and cats, rats are nocturnal and predatory. Their tendency to scurry in the dark gave them a mysterious and fearful reputation.