Rats often bring to mind garbage and pests – but not for everyone.
Nicole Flood wants to break prejudices about the rat as a pet and has six at home.
– They follow wherever you go, says Nicole.
The domestic rat is an increasingly popular pet, and many choose it over a dog, cat or rabbit. Someone who is really hooked on the rat as a pet is Nicole Flood, from Jönköping. She has six rats at home – all with their own little personalities. The rat Monti is a little scared, Mario is mostly curious and Albino is a little shy, explains Nicole, who sees the rats a little like her children.
– I get a bit of a mother feeling and want to take care of them. They are so small, cute and innocent,” she says.
Can do arts
But Nicole’s rats are not only cute, charming and personable – they can also make art. According to Nicole, it’s easier to teach rats arts than dogs. Among other things, they can spin and play following John.
– They are absolutely fantastic animals and very intelligent. If I lay down on the floor, they follow, says Nicole.
Rats are pack animals and thrive best when they are allowed to live together with other rats and for Nicole’s rats, the favorite place is in her bonnet.
– They like cozy places to be, she says.
Why rat as a pet?
Despite its bad reputation, the rat has many advantages and fine qualities. The domestic rat can become incredibly tame and personal, is easy to care for and does not make great demands on its owner. It quickly learns who is master or mistress and likes to be in the center of the action – and the rat develops its personality more and more as you give it attention.
– They are absolutely fantastic animals, says Nicole.