How do domestic mice look? - briefly
Domestic mice are small rodents about 6–10 cm long, with a short, hair‑covered tail roughly equal in length, fur that is typically gray, brown, black, or white, a pointed snout, rounded ears, and large black eyes.
How do domestic mice look? - in detail
Domestic mice kept as pets are small rodents, typically measuring 6–10 cm in body length, with a tail of equal or slightly greater length. Their bodies are compact, covered in a dense coat of fur that varies in color, pattern, and texture according to breed.
- Coat colors: common shades include white, black, brown, gray, and agouti (a blend of brown and black). Some individuals display piebald patterns, with distinct patches of contrasting color.
- Markings: dorsal stripes, spots, or mottled patches occur in many strains; laboratory‑derived albino mice lack pigment entirely, presenting pure white fur and pink eyes.
- Fur texture: most pet mice have short, sleek hair, while certain breeds (e.g., “Long‑haired” or “Satin”) possess longer, softer coats that require regular grooming.
The head is proportionally large, featuring a blunt snout, prominent whiskers, and small, rounded ears positioned near the top of the skull. Eyes are relatively large, dark in pigmented strains and pink in albinos, providing a wide field of vision. The limbs are short but muscular; forepaws end in sharp claws used for climbing and foraging. Hind feet are broader, equipped with pads that facilitate rapid scurrying.
Tail anatomy mirrors the body’s coloration, typically naked or sparsely furred, and serves as a balance organ during agile movements. The overall silhouette is streamlined, enabling swift, erratic motion typical of the species.