Rats and mice in the wild can be one of the worst pests for mankind, but pet rats and mice are not the same as their wild counterparts.
With minimal space and care requirements, rats and mice are ideal pets for some people, especially in the Year of Rat.
The website tianjindaily.com.cn reports that as the Spring Festival approaches, many people are rushing to pet shops to purchase pet rats for good luck.
A typical pet mouse can cost up to 35 yuan, nearly US$5. But with a terrarium, food and accessories, you will have to spend at least 200 yuan, or about US$28. Some rare species may cost several thousand yuan.
(CRI January 28, 2008)
