1. They either love you, or they hate you.
While most pet rats have a natural instinct for companionship, they may not always want cuddles. Many rats only like to get along with their own kind, and only want the food humans have to offer. But all the while, most rats are loving rats.
2. They get into things.
Rats don't always like napping and eating, and some are prone to escape. They're curious about the world around them, and the adventures that await them. But don't worry, they'll come back if they get out...maybe.
3. They'd like to think of themselves as "hygienic".
You might already be thinking, "Rats will never be clean," but the truth is, 10% of their day consists of grooming themselves or their cagemates. It's a sign of affection and well health. And let's face it, us rat owners have found in several occasions with them trying to clean us, too.
4. Eating is their talent.
From bananas to berries to...bugs. Much like toddlers, if they grab hold of something, chances are they'll wanna eat it, or at least attempt to. Even when you feed them till the world ends, it seems they have a bottomless pit and are constantly munching on something.
5. Although they love you, they love your clothes even more.
Either build a brick wall around your cage, or keep your clothes away from their reach. Anything that smells like you is comfort to them, or extra warmth. You've got a -102% chance that they won't take the opportunity to drag that brand-new Nirvana shirt into their nest and shred it to pieces.
6. Better buy some earplugs.
Unless you're a heavy sleeper, you might want to consider leaving their cage out of your room. Even if all they have is a blanket and water, these nocturnal critters will find whatever way they can to wake you up. Making noise is how they get you to wake up and feed them.
7. Stashing their cash.
Give them a cheerio, they'll eat it on the spot. Give em a carrot, cucumber and a slice of turkey, they'll make trips to carry them back to their lair. It's not that they don't trust you not to take it away, but actually it is.
8. They're...friendly.
When rats meet other house pets, it's likely they'll want to check them out. Some dogs and cats may be totally up for a new friendship, but others want as far away from those little paws as possible.
9. They don't always see nose-to-nose.
These animals have a natural sense of companionship, but when you live for that companion for your entire life, you're gonna get annoyed with each other a few times. But a few tiffs here and there between "ratting" one out for stolen food and "he squeaked, she squeaked," won't affect their overall behavior with each other.
10. Caught rat-handed.
Remember that these creatures can be highly intelligent, and as mentioned before, they get into things. When you let them out for the first few times, they'll go exploring. You'll probably end up finding them somewhere along the lines of cleaning up crumbs in the kitchen, or chewing their way through a wall.
11. Small spaces seem special.
Is it a comfort thing? Something to do with safety? The world may never know, but give them a small shoe box or a sock and they're bound to love it.
12. Love is what matters. Sometimes.
Lets just say, catch them on a good day, and they might let you cuddle them a bit. Or maybe they're just too lazy to do anything about it.
13. It's always worth it.
Rats might not always be the best pet to own, but they sure will brighten your day. And, there will always be someone who thinks it's gross to have a rat. But, these curious critters can learn tricks just as well as dogs, and even learn their name--but most importantly they will always find a way to be with you and enjoy the life you provide for them.
