ObjectiveTo assess the methods, processes and evaluation criteria of burn models in rats. MethodsDatabases including MEDLINE, EMbase, CBM, CNKI, VIP and WanFang Data were electronically searched from inception to February 2016. The animal studies of burn models development in rats were included. Two reviewers independently screened literatures, extracted data, assessed the quality of included studies, and analyzed the outcomes. ResultsFifteen studies including 38 burn groups were identified. The results indicated:(1) depth of burn:50.00% burn models were partial thickness burn (II°), and 21.05% were full thickness burn (III°). (2) methods of induction:80.00% burn models were developed through high temperature liquid or solid tools. (3) burn sites:93.33% burns were on the back of rats. (4) induction temperature:66.67% induction temperature was between 80℃ and 100℃. (5) induction time:86.67% induction time was between 3 seconds and 100 seconds. (6) anesthesia:40.00% rats were anesthetized with intraperitoneal injection of pentobarbital sodium. (7) skin preparation:60.00% studies reported the skin was prepared by physical and chemical methods. (8) housing post surgery:13.33% studies reported the housing temperature post surgery. (9) intervention post surgery:13.33% studies reported antishock treatment. (10) assessment criteria:almost all studies evaluated the depth of burn through the macroscopic and microcosmic assessment. ConclusionBased on current animal studies, most burn models in rats are partial thickness and full thickness burn on the back of rats. Burn is inducted mainly by 80℃ to 100℃ hot liquid or solid tools within 30 seconds, according with skin preparation, anesthesia, antishock or analgesia management. The depth of burn is evaluated by the macroscopic and microcosmic assessment. However, there is no standard for the methods, processes, assessment and reporting of development of burn model in rats.