When you mention “Rat” or “Rats”, a lot of people will think of the dirty and disease riddled vermin they have been portrayed as for centuries.  For this reason alone, rats became the perfect companions for punks and goths.

Punks, Goths and rats have been an item since the start of the Punk generation since the mid 70’s, and was quickly adapted by the Trad Goths in the early 80’s, and it was a very common sight to see groups of Punks and / or Goths sporting a rat on their shoulder.

Contrary to belief, rats are actually VERY clean animals, and are very smart, and are truly wonderful pets or companions as I call them..
My main Rat was called “Sir Winston”, and would come everywhere with me, he would stand tall on my shoulder, or hide in my pocket or sleeve, if I made a certain noise, knowing he was not allowed to be seen.. “Sir Winston” had his own wardrobe, which consisted of a black cape with gold “SW” embodied on it, and for special occasions he wore a dicky bow tie. He was very friendly to my friends, but extremely loyal to me.

Finding original 80’s photo’s of Punks and Goths with their rats is VERY hard and rare, so please, if you have any, or know someone that has pics with their rats, have them add it to this gallery..