[katiewilson]

In my experience, rats can be really fun and affectionate creatures. I had one as a class pet in 4th grade that would crawl up your arms, hang out on your shoulders, then retire to the inside of your shirt sleeve for a quick nap. It never bit, despite being handled by 30+ kids. That poor rat put up with a lot, thinking back, but it just had the best personality and was sooo loving. I've been DYING for a couple of rats ever since, and as soon as I have a rat-safe cage, I will finally adopt two boys. As long as someone is willing to put in the necessary resources, I always encourage getting rats.