Gerbils are unlikely to bite, if handled gently. They have few health problems and are the cleanest of all the commonly kept pet rodents. If you are more interested in observing your pet and don't have as much time, a gerbil, hamster, or mouse is an option as they are happy living in their cage.
Mice are one of the easiest pets to own because they have minimal space needs and do not require attention. They do, however, enjoy companionship with other mice, so purchasing multiple can keep your pet happy. A pet mouse will usually live for 1 to 3 years.
Chinchillas are clean, quiet and attractive rodents that don't smell. They can live for 10-20 years, and they've been bred and farmed for their soft, dense fur.
Rats are considered the most loving rodents. They form strong bonds with the humans that look after them and enjoy being cuddled. Gerbils are a close second, though they won't sit still as long as a rat will.
People want companion pets because their affection and neediness remind us of human babies. Most domestic cats and dogs love to be around their owners. The more popular small pets, such as rabbits, ferrets, rats, and guinea pigs, also display a high degree of affection.
If handled gently, gerbils are unlikely to bite, explains Hoppes. They have few health problems and are the cleanest of all the commonly kept pet rodents.
They become attached to each other, love their own families, and easily bond with their human guardians—returning as much affection as is given to them. Many rats will even “groom” a human companion's hand and would appreciate a massage, a scratch behind the ears, or even a tickle in return.
If you're looking for a close "I really love you" kind of relationship, a mouse may not be the best option if you're on the fence between a mouse and a rat. Of course, mice can be handled and should be. But they're probably not going to be as affectionate or responsive as your rattie rat would likely be.
But what exactly do mice and rats hate to smell? Mice can be kept away by using the smells of peppermint oil, cinnamon, vinegar, citronella, ammonia, bleach, and mothballs.
You may also use a combination of deodorizing and sanitizing solutions. Create a 10/90 bleach/water mixture. Vinegar or commercial disinfectants are also good choices. After you've removed the mouse and cleaned the area, circulating the air will help the smell dissipate.
You can repel rats from your home and garden with scents they dislike, such as clover, garlic, onion, hot peppers containing capsaicin, house ammonia, used coffee grounds, peppermint, eucalyptus, predator (cat) scent, white vinegar, and citronella oil.
Rats are very clean.
“People often think of rats as dirty sewer creatures, but they're actually quite clean and good about grooming,” Graham said. “In fact, rats groom more frequently and thoroughly than cats.”
Two of the most dangerous and widespread rodents are the black rat — known scientifically as Rattus rattus — and the brown rat — referred to as Rattus norvegicus. These two originated in Asia but have since infested many other regions.
Many believe Dumbo rats to be friendlier than other types of rats. (Dumbo rats' ears are on the sides of their head rather than on top—similar to Walt Disney's “Dumbo the Elephant”.) Burmese are also often considered to be very friendly.
Do not kiss, nuzzle, or hold rats close to your face. This can startle your rats and also increase your chances of being bitten. Bites can spread germs and can make you sick. You don't have to touch pet rats to get sick from their germs.
Male rats tend to be quite cuddly and affectionate pets with a mellow temperament. They are likely to enjoy snuggling up with you for some head scratches. If you want a more independent and adventurous companion, a female rat may be the pet for you. Female rats are quite active and like to get busy exploring.
Hamsters are also very friendly and easygoing, while mice tend to be more shy and curious overall, warming up to their owners in time.
Hamsters Vs Rats: The Conclusion
Some would argue that rats are much better pets, as they're intelligent, clean and love to interact with their owner. They're also much less likely to bite than hamsters.
While dogs and cats get most of the attention and applause, a rabbit is also one of the best pets for depression. They're extremely social and easily adapt to human companionship.