What pet is better a rat or mouse?

Answer 1

I've owned both rats and mice for over 30 years (I'm currently 44 years old). Mice are adorable, but I love rats! In my opinion, rats are a better choice. Between rats and mice, the rats have always seemed to be the more intelligent, playful, affectionate, and less nervous.

Another thing to consider: on average, rats can live 2-3 years or so. Mice only for 1-2 years, approx.

Unless you're going to be spending a lot of time with them, both rats and mice should really be kept at least in pairs (same-sex pairs, unless you want a housefull of babies!). They seem to be much happier with a friend in the cage with them....but that also means a larger cage--and more expense.

One small thing: if trying also to decide between male or female rats, the males usually tend to have more of a "laid-back" personality, while the females always seem to want to play and play...and play! Males also tend to have a slightly stronger-smelling urine than the females, that I've noticed. Both sexes seem to be equally trainable, sweet, and cuddly--really depends upon the individual's personality, overall.

By the way, contrary to what some people think (most that seem to never have actually OWNED a rat or a mouse!) rats are not dirty animals. The rats that I've owned tend to use mostly one particular corner of their cage as their bathroom. If the cage is kept clean on a regular basis, the rats do not smell, and neither does their cage.

Answer 2

Regardless of what some people think, mice are very intelligent creatures. Both rats and mice are very similar. It all really depends on the particular animal! Animals are individuals and they will act differently. And let's get things straight...mice do not smell more than rats do! Mice are like a cheaper version of a rat because of size. They can be very soiciable animals. They can be just as cuddly as a rat. Getting one from a reputable breeder that has been handled is the key to a happy friendship. Either way you go is a win-win situation! Good luck!
dave<:3}~...OWNER/ SHAGGYMOUSE YAHOO GROUP

Answer 3

They both make sweet pets & are both social by nature. Rats are playful, learn their names easilly & they love to ride around on your shoulder. Mice are charming & their tiny size makes them even more so. They need less space than rats do if that's a consideration. With rats, it's much better to have 2 or 3 of the same sex. I've heard that male mice may fight unless they were raised together but most of my experience is with female mice who usually get along fine.
We've lived with lots of mice & rats but currently only have 1 mouse b/c her cage-mates have passed. We have 5 rats-- a pair of PEW brothers who will be 2 yrs old next month, a 1.5 yr old hairless girl, a hooded girl & a bareback dumbo girl who are both under 1 yr.

Answer 4

Definitly have to say a rat. I've never had much luck with mice, to small, get out of the cage really easy and aren't nearly as much fun as a rat. rats are larger so there easier to handle and keep track of, in fact my best friends (one of five rats) will walk on a leash! If your patient you can also teach them tricks. the only downside I;ve seen so far is that the bedding needs to be changed very frequently and precautions taken against cold air and drafts. they get sick kind of easy...

Answer 5

i think guinea pig ofr hamster, rats can stink sometimes but i hear they are pretty even tempered and very intellegent. mice are fast, smart and i think the are to small. hamsters are cute, cudle, cheap, and dont stink so much but, they an bite if not raised right, they breed like crazy, can not be housed together(depends on breed) and they require a fair share of time on your part. quinea pigs are cute pretty big, no too big, come in many variaties usually dont bite but, if you dont clean the cage often enough it will stink just liek any other animal. hamsters and mice dont require large cages but only some hamsters can be housed together. rats are not supposed to be that bad and guinea pigs are fun. do a little research and figure out what is best for you.

Answer 6

I would say a rat because a mouse is very easy to esacape but with a rat it wil be more with you and mice get very sccaredd [[<33]]

Answer 7

Rats tend to be more social and friendly. They are also bigger and easier to tame. In my opinion, mouses are just cuter.

Answer 8

A rat is better. Mice are stinky

Answer 9

It's personal preference, both make wonderful pets. Although, I must mention, my mice are very tame and calm...they come from responsible breeders and have been handled from three days of age and on.

Answer 10

I like mouses better due to the smallerness, but if you want a bigger one, get a rat.