Pet rodents are a potential source of salmonella, says the CDC, warning people to wash their hands thoroughly after handling hamsters, mice, or rats — or their cages and bedding. These pets were the ...

Rat lovers are used to being misunderstood. “When my husband told his ex that we got rats, she said, ‘On purpose?’ ” says Tami Kaplan of Waltham, Mass., proud owner of three of the maligned rodents.

“The humane thing to do is not use an exterminator and save these little animals that are happy and want to live,” animal rescuer Frankie Floridia said.

Recent news reports of a rat infestation in the Bedford Park area of The Bronx have many New Yorkers more terrified than usual of rodents. But some city dwellers see a very different side to the ...

When Abby Chronister started college six years ago, she found herself struggling with anxiety and depression. After class, she often retreated to her bed. That’s when she adopted her first two rats, ...

Rodents are fascinating little creatures that provide hours of entertainment. They are easy to care for – and most love interacting with their owners. One of the downsides to keeping rodents as pets ...

She’s got a soft spot for vermin. A so-called extreme rodent fanatic has gone viral after bathing her 50 rat “babies” in her kitchen sink. Michele Raybon, 51, of Palmdale, California, hasn’t stopped ...

A disease associated with squalor could be on the increase in suburban homes because more people are keeping rodents as pets, warns an Australian microbiologist. Known as rat bite fever, the disease ...

Manhattan mom Dianne Rochenski loves rats. She keeps rat figurines in her living room. A 2-foot stuffed rat is propped against her bedroom window. Her favorite movie is “Ratatouille.” And every night, ...