Rats are exceptional pets. I had always been against having a rat as a pet and couldn't see why anyone else would ever have one either. Then I decided to buy one for my son, I did some researching and found out they loved having a companion... So I went out a few days later and got another one. I rescued both from being snake food... They were little angels.
Wow, these animals are unbelievable. I have one now that learned her name in a matter of minutes and came when called. They are super intelligent... They know who I am talking to and what I am talking about. A rat is like no other pet because they become your trusting, loyal friend to the end. There's nothing like walking in the door and having a bunch of ratties jump up on the side of their cage to say, "Hi mommy!... We're so happy to see you!"... They pass over treats to be loved on and picked up. Unlike humans, their intelligence doesn't tend to give them attitudes.
They do have short life spans but just think of all the little personalities you will have the opportunity to meet!
They can have health problems and that can lead to expensive vet bills... However, I've only had two that were sick out of all the ones I've ever had.
Guinea Pigs- Are wonderful, delightful little animals. And when I say, "A rat is like no other pet because they become your trusting, loyal friend to the end"... I honestly have to say guinea pigs follow quickly behind. Mine were a tremendous part of the family... People would love to visit with my piggies when they came over. They loved being held. And, would sit with me for hours if allowed (minus potty breaks...
). They are not as intelligent as rats but, it doesn't matter because they are so sweet and loving on their own. Mine understood everything I said to them and would even do something if I asked them to. Mine would also interact with me with piggie talk since they thought I was their mommy (I got them when they were babies and still with their mother... And was with them most of the time since). I never had to chase them because they would come over and stand against the side of their cage when they wanted me to pick them up. One would start purring the moment he saw me walk into the room...
To sum this up... I can't say anything negative about either. I've had wonderful relationships with both. Rats are less expensive care-wise because they don't eat as much and take up less space. Both are loving pets and since both of mine always wanted attention I can't say ratties are more affectionate than piggies. A piggie can be somewhat content to sit in its cage while you are in the room if its cage is close to you. Rats will watch your every move to see if you dare step close to their cage. A piggie once in your lap won't want to budge... Whereas, ratties will want to explore.