The male spiny rat can grow to 12-20 cm, and the female mouse can grow to 14-20 cm. Generally, the female mouse will be larger. Spiny rats are sandy, reddish-brown, or light gray in color.

The back hair is thorn-like needles, so it is called the spiny mouse, the ears are small and round, and the long tail has scales. Inhabits rocky and sandy areas of Africa and southwestern Asia, feeding on grains and plants.