Free choice for animals

Can you try to make sure that this whole feeling is grounded? (Even if the grounding doesn't bring you complete certainty of your mind)

All = about what*

Quite simply. In order to make a meaningful choice, it is necessary to understand to some extent the consequences of actions and to plan for a certain period of time. And animals do not outwardly show such significant abilities.
Of course, it is possible that some rat, deep down in its heart, without our knowing, is planning the future and considering theoretical options, what will happen if… and what will happen if not… and taking into account considerations such as whether the friendly rat will be deeply offended if it does not explain itself to it or not. But there is no behavioral indication of this.