Should we stop using “Rats!” as a negative interjection? Perhaps we should be saying “Aw, rats” in a sweet manner.
Pet rats are domesticated creatures. They’ve been selectively bred in captivity. And pet rats are known for being very social, developing a strong bond with their humans.
Some rats may even learn their names! Just as rats groom themselves like a cat, they also learn tricks like a dog. They are intelligent creatures who need toys to keep them stimulated.
According to R.A.T.S (Rat Assistance and Teaching Society), rats usually live to be around 2.5 years old, but can grow as old as …read more

I love rats. To be more specific, I love the domesticated fancy rat. I’ve never had an experience with the wild variety but I doubt they’d be at the top of my list. Anyway, last week marked the beginning of the Chinese New Year and the Year of the Rat!
Over the last six years we’ve owned four rats. Our first pair in 2002 were sisters we named Dot and Dash, and our second pair of sisters in 2005 were Starbuck and Boomer. Rats make excellent pets and I recommend them to anyone, especially anyone looking to get a first …read more