Crossword Genius

Hand back the animal (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

rat

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This clue might be a double definition.

'hand back' is the first definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'animal' is the second definition.
(rat is a kind of animal)

'the' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for rat that I've seen before include "one who betrayed" , "Treacherous person" , "Treacherous rodent" , "Tell-tale" , "Betray like a rodent" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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