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)