How do you care for a mouse? - briefly
Provide a secure cage with deep bedding, fresh water, a balanced diet of high‑quality mouse pellets plus occasional fresh fruit or vegetables, and include nesting material and chew toys for enrichment; monitor for illness signs and maintain cleanliness by spot‑cleaning daily and fully sanitizing weekly.
How do you care for a mouse? - in detail
A healthy mouse needs a secure enclosure that prevents escape and protects against predators. Choose a cage with solid sides, a secure lid, and a wire or glass front for observation. Provide a minimum floor space of 200 sq in per animal, and include a deep layer of bedding such as aspen shavings or paper-based material that can be changed regularly. Add a hideout, a climbing structure, and a chewable object to satisfy natural behaviors.
Nutrition must be balanced and consistent. Offer a commercial mouse pellet as the staple diet; measure portions to avoid excess weight gain. Supplement with fresh vegetables—carrot, broccoli, kale—offered in small quantities daily. Provide a limited amount of fruit, such as apple or banana, no more than a teaspoon per mouse. Ensure constant access to clean water, using a sipper bottle that is checked for leaks each day.
Health monitoring includes regular inspection of the coat, eyes, ears, and paws. Look for signs of hair loss, crusty discharge, or swelling. Observe behavior; lethargy, excessive grooming, or loss of appetite may indicate illness. Schedule a veterinary check‑up at least twice a year, and keep a record of weight, diet changes, and any medications administered.
Handling should be gentle and brief to reduce stress. Approach the cage calmly, scoop the mouse using both hands, and support its body fully. Limit handling sessions to a few minutes, gradually increasing duration as the animal becomes accustomed. Provide enrichment items—tunnels, wheels, and nesting material—to encourage physical activity and mental stimulation.
Cleaning routines maintain hygiene and prevent disease. Spot‑clean soiled bedding daily, replace the entire bedding weekly, and disinfect the cage, water bottle, and food dishes with a mild, non‑toxic cleaner. Perform a deep clean monthly, removing all accessories, washing them, and reassembling the enclosure.
Following these guidelines ensures the mouse remains active, disease‑free, and comfortable in a domestic setting.