To many homeowners, rodents are disgusting, filthy creatures, but for some people, they’re fuzzy little friends that fit in a shirt pocket. Mice, rats, hamsters and other rodents are welcome guests in homes across the globe, but although their genetic codes are similar, there are major differences between pets and pests.
The History of Rodents as Pets
Half of the world’s mammal population belongs to the rodent family, but only a few species have managed to penetrate the wall of squeamishness that separates them from human affection. Syrian hamsters were first discovered by a zoologist working in the Middle East. They were sent to labs for breeding and arrived on the American and European pet scene in the 1930s. Many domesticated hamster breeds now exist, and hamsters are among the best-selling rodents in pet stores. Other popular pet rodents include gerbils, guinea pigs and chinchillas.
Cuteness Overcomes a Sordid Past
The history of mice and rats isn’t quite so charming. Rats were blamed for spreading Bubonic plague during the mid-fourteenth century, although fleas were actually at fault. Mice were a serious threat to early farmers, and much of the world has viewed both animals as disease-carrying food thieves throughout history. Despite their bad reputations, they’ve been winning hearts for centuries. References to keeping mice were found in Chinese documents from 1100 BC. By 1895, the breeding of pet mice became popular in England, and domesticated mouse and rat species soon became known as fancy mice and rats. Since then, fancy mouse and rat clubs have formed all over the world. When you talk to rodent lovers, you’ll soon realize they take their hobby very seriously. There’s even an American Fancy Rat and Mouse Association.
The Differences Between Pests and Pets
Unlike wild animals, domestic rodents are selectively bred. They’re tame and well-socialized, and they don’t carry the diseases that wild rodents can spread to humans and other animals. People who own them will tell you their pets are clean, intelligent, active creatures that can interact with humans and learn cool tricks. Some rats even live in peace alongside unusually laid-back house cats. Unfortunately, the adorable little mouse you find hiding in your cupboard isn’t a great choice for a pet. It’s probably never been handled by a human. It may bite in fear and transmit disease through its feces and urine. If you want a pet rodent, visit your local pet store.
Managing Not-So-Fancy Austin Rodents
Austin doesn’t suffer a rodent shortage, and the ones that visit your home without an invitation can do serious damage. When you see signs of invasion like feces, chewed wood or ruined food stores, it’s time to call our rodent control specialists. At ABC, we help you get rid of unwanted visitors, even if they’re cute.