Rats are by far the most intelligent of the pocket pets. They will learn tricks if enough time is spent with them. They bond with people to the point of becoming a real part of the family. Rats like to have time outside of the cage, they usually enjoy a ride on some ones shoulders. A pet rat will come to the top of the cage when it hears a voice and beg to be let out. They will beg for a snack from your dinner and will curl up on your lap for a nap. Rats do not have the same tendencies to run away as other rodents do. They do not bite as a first line of defense; in fact, domestic rats will try almost anything not to bite.
They do get a lot larger than the other pets discussed and therefore have larger cage requirements. They do best in at least a 20-gallon aquarium, for a pair. A great choice for rats is a cage made for a ferret, they generally have multiple levels and the rats are too big to get out (although while they are young, and aquarium is best).
Rats prefer to be in groups of two or more, but again, it is so important not to put male/female pairs together unless they are to be used for breeding. Rats can produce up to 20 pups per litter! Male rats do very well together as pairs and do not have the same problems with fighting as other rodents do.
Choosing the Right Pocket Pet
Before choosing any of these pets for a child or an adult, it is important to be able to provide them with all the care that they will need. These are not disposable pets and cannot be let loose if you grow tired of them. They are spoiled. Do not give any of them as surprise gifts, always make sure the recipient is expecting and wanting the animals.
All of these little creatures can make very nice pets, if their needs are taken into consideration. They all have little quirks, likes and dislikes. When these are taken into account and met, everyone can live happily ever after.