I had a pet rat who I gave the run of the place. He never chewed any of my stuff either.

He was really sweet, and would try to comfort me when I was down.

Once, the birds and squirrels were making their alarm sound when they see a predatory bird, and he dove under a dresser for cover. Then got out, running up to me, motioning me with his head, then running back.

I think in his mind, he was telling me, "What are you doing, there's danger, get under cover."

Risking his own life for me.