How can a cage be set up for a mouse? - briefly
Select a solid plastic or wire enclosure with a secure lid, line the base with absorbent bedding, include a hideout, food dish, and water bottle, and ensure adequate ventilation. Place the setup on a stable surface away from direct sunlight and drafts to maintain a consistent environment.
How can a cage be set up for a mouse? - in detail
A suitable enclosure for a laboratory mouse requires careful selection of dimensions, materials, and accessories to ensure health, safety, and behavioral enrichment.
The cage should provide at least 200 cm² of floor space per animal; group housing demands an additional 30 cm² per extra mouse. Minimum height of 15 cm prevents climbing injuries and facilitates ventilation. Wire mesh with a 1 mm opening size prevents escape while allowing airflow; acrylic or polycarbonate alternatives reduce noise but must be inspected for cracks.
Bedding material must be absorbent, low‑dust, and non‑toxic. Options include compressed paper pellets, aspen shavings, or specialized cellulose sheets. Replace bedding weekly or when soiled to control ammonia levels.
Essential accessories include:
- A solid hideout or nest box, positioned in a corner to reduce stress.
- A stainless‑steel water bottle with a sipper tube; check for leakage each day.
- A metal or ceramic food hopper, filled with a balanced rodent diet; avoid sugary treats that can cause obesity.
- Chewable enrichment items such as untreated wooden blocks or cardboard tubes; replace when worn to prevent ingestion of splinters.
- A running wheel with a solid surface and a diameter of at least 30 mm to accommodate natural locomotion.
Cleaning protocol:
- Remove mouse and place in a temporary holding cage with fresh bedding.
- Disassemble cage components; scrub surfaces with a mild detergent, rinse thoroughly, and disinfect with a 10 % bleach solution or an approved veterinary disinfectant.
- Dry all parts completely before reassembly to prevent mold growth.
- Return mouse to the cleaned enclosure, replenish bedding, water, and food.
Environmental considerations:
- Maintain ambient temperature between 20 °C and 26 °C; avoid drafts and direct sunlight.
- Keep relative humidity at 40‑60 % to reduce respiratory irritation.
- Provide a 12‑hour light/dark cycle, using dim red light during the dark phase to allow observation without disrupting circadian rhythms.
Regular monitoring includes daily checks for signs of injury, abnormal behavior, or excessive waste accumulation. Record observations in a log to track health trends and adjust husbandry practices accordingly.