from what i've read/heard, hamsters and rats are nocturnal. i would do your own research on the care of both and see if either would suit your purposes.

guinea pigs are very active during the day and sleep at night. they make wonderful pets but you must be willing to give them a spacious enclosure and keep it immaculately clean. they're tons of fun, most love to be handled, make the cutest noises and become quite bonded to their keepers.

where is your location? i have a friend near chicago who runs an all breed (dog) rescue and also rescues guinea pigs. MANY of them come to her pregnant so she almost always has babies/young ones of every color and hair coat texture (some smooth, some very furry, some even curly).

if that's something you might be interested in, i can get you her contact information.

Thanks a lot for information. I used to have 2 guinea pigs some 15 years ago (before having children) and indeed they were very social. Currently I am moving without a permanent address in the USA so far but certainly would appreciate contacts of your friend.

I had two hamsters growing up in a home full of pets of all types. They were pretty easy care and fun. My sister had bigger pets- gerbils and rabbits.

this is her personal facebook page where she posts adorable photos of her piggy rescues.

https://www.facebook.com/christy.vanmerkestyn

this is the facebook page for the rescue. she pulls a LOT of dogs from chicago animal control and does transports almost every day so you have to scroll, scroll, scroll past all of the dogs to find the piggy posts.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086927928440

if you don't do facebook, let me know and i can get you phone numbers.