Chinese horoscopes: Rat

2. Chinese horoscopes: Rat (1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008)

Good traits: Rats are hardworking and have an eye for detail. They're charming and charismatic, believe in their convictions and are disciplined. They are often leaders and pioneers and a symbol of good luck in Chinese horoscopes.

Bad traits: But the rat can be ruthless. They're not willing to compromise and can be selfish. They can also be cruel and bossy, not letting anyone stand in the way of their ambitions.

Rats in a relationship: Rats' extrovert and charming nature makes them very attractive to the opposite sex, and they find themselves having no trouble getting into relationships. They do have the tendency to be seduced by the excitement of danger, which can lead to troubled love lives. Rats are romantic and fall in love easily and, once in a good relationship, are loyal and can play the role of both best friend and ideal lover. Once settled, a Rat enjoys the company of a small group of friends and picks a partner with close family ties.

Sex: Rats are playful and mysterious which means the sex is never dull. Rats are also full of energy and use this advantage in the bedroom. As natural leaders, Rats can be greedy but if they find a partner willing to stand up to them - the sex will be explosive.

Best sexual partner: Monkey and Dragon
Least compatible with... Horse

Best sex positions for the Rat: Anything where the Rat takes the lead - try The High Dive or Edge of Heaven

Famous people born in the Year of the Rat: William Shakespeare, Prince Charles, Judy Finnigan, Cameron Diaz, Carol McGiffin, Gwyneth Paltrow, Jonathan Ross, Hugh Grant and Scarlett Johansson.

Corresponding Western horoscope: Sagittarius

Read on for the other animals in Chinese horoscopes

By Fong Chau