I just saw this new report that says adults and kids who have owned pets say they got the "most satisfaction" with rats as a pet. At our house we have had cats, fish and a dog. They all have the good and not so good points.
I had hamsters when I was a kid and rabbits. Honestly they weren't that fun. Unless you consider running around the yard with your grandmother before school on several occasions trying to catch rabbits who got out of their cage...again. It wasn't exactly quality time.
I have never owned a rat but who knows maybe they are fun. This lady is a rat owner and had 20 Things You Should Know Before You Get a Pet Rat. She lost me at #3. Ewwww...