How do you care for a house mouse? - briefly
Offer a secure enclosure with suitable bedding, continuous access to fresh water, and a diet of commercial rodent pellets supplemented by small portions of fruits and vegetables. Clean the habitat regularly and monitor the mouse for any signs of illness.
How do you care for a house mouse? - in detail
A suitable cage should be secure, ventilated, and sized to allow movement. Minimum dimensions of 30 × 20 × 20 cm accommodate a single adult; larger enclosures are preferable for groups. Use a solid base covered with a thin layer of absorbent bedding such as paper pulp or aspen shavings; avoid cedar or pine, which release harmful oils. Provide a nesting box constructed from untreated wood or plastic, with a soft material like cotton fiber for bedding.
Nutrition requires a balanced commercial mouse pellet as the staple. Offer fresh water in a sipper bottle, checking the supply daily. Supplement the diet with small portions of fresh vegetables (carrot, broccoli, cucumber) and occasional protein sources (hard‑boiled egg, mealworm). Limit sugary treats; excess can cause obesity and dental problems.
Health maintenance includes daily observation for signs of respiratory distress, nasal discharge, or abnormal behavior. Trim nails weekly using small animal nail clippers; overgrown claws can impair locomotion. Schedule a veterinary check‑up at least twice a year with a practitioner experienced in rodents. Maintain strict hygiene by spot‑cleaning soiled bedding each day and performing a full cage change weekly.
Environmental enrichment prevents boredom and encourages natural behaviors. Rotate a variety of chew toys—untreated wooden blocks, cardboard tubes, or mineral chews—to promote dental wear. Install climbing structures such as plastic ladders or PVC pipes. Provide tunnels and hideaways to reduce stress.
Handling should be gentle and consistent. Begin with brief, calm sessions, allowing the mouse to explore the hand before lifting. Support the body fully, avoiding restraint that could cause injury. Regular handling builds trust and facilitates health examinations.
Cleaning protocols protect both animal and keeper. Disinfect cage components with a dilute solution of veterinary‑grade disinfectant, rinsing thoroughly before reuse. Replace bedding entirely during weekly changes to prevent ammonia buildup, which can damage respiratory tissues.
If breeding is intended, separate males from females after weaning to prevent unwanted litters. Provide a nesting area with ample soft material; monitor the female for signs of pregnancy, such as a swollen abdomen. After birth, keep the nest undisturbed for the first week to allow pups to develop.
By adhering to these guidelines—adequate housing, proper nutrition, vigilant health care, enrichment, careful handling, and routine sanitation—owners ensure the well‑being and longevity of their pet mouse.