What animal type is Pikachu officially classified as?

Pikachu is officially classified as the Mouse Pokémon.

The classification appears in Pokédex descriptions and reflects Pikachu’s small rodent-like body, pointed ears, cheek pouches, and lightning-bolt-shaped tail. Pikachu is also an Electric-type Pokémon, but “Electric” describes its elemental battle type rather than its animal-like species category.

Pikachu’s design history is more complicated than its official label. Atsuko Nishida created the original design, and Ken Sugimori finalized its artwork. Development discussions drew on several small mammals, while Satoshi Tajiri ultimately identified the character as a mouse.

Pikachu became the franchise mascot after appearing prominently in the anime alongside Ash Ketchum. Its popularity helped make it the most recognizable Pokémon, even though it was not the first creature considered for the starring role. Fans sometimes call Pikachu a rabbit or squirrel based on its silhouette, but the canonical classification is Mouse Pokémon.