How should a mouse be kept at home? - briefly
A mouse requires a secure cage with solid flooring, ample space, regular cleaning, and enrichment items such as tunnels, wheels, and chew toys. Feed high‑quality mouse pellets supplemented with fresh vegetables, limited fruit, and provide constant access to clean water.
How should a mouse be kept at home? - in detail
A mouse kept as a domestic pet requires a secure enclosure, appropriate nutrition, regular hygiene, environmental enrichment, and health monitoring.
The cage should be made of wire or solid plastic with a tight-fitting lid to prevent escape. Minimum dimensions are 30 × 30 × 30 cm for a single adult; larger space is advisable for multiple individuals. Provide a solid base layer of absorbent bedding such as aspen shavings or paper pulp, replace it weekly, and clean the entire cage monthly with mild, unscented soap and warm water.
Nutrition consists of a balanced commercial mouse pellet or mash, supplemented with fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli, leafy greens) and occasional protein sources (hard‑boiled egg, mealworms). Offer water in a sipper bottle; check the bottle daily for leaks and refill with fresh, filtered water.
Enrichment items reduce stress and promote natural behaviors. Include:
- Chew blocks or untreated wood to maintain dental health.
- Tubes, tunnels, and climbing structures for exploration.
- Nesting material such as shredded paper for building nests.
Handle the animal gently, supporting its body to avoid injury. Limit handling sessions to 5‑10 minutes initially, increasing duration as the mouse becomes accustomed. Wash hands before and after contact to minimize disease transmission.
Observe for signs of illness: lethargy, weight loss, nasal discharge, abnormal fur condition, or changes in eating and drinking patterns. If any symptom appears, consult a veterinarian experienced with small rodents promptly.
Maintain a cleaning schedule: spot‑clean waste daily, replace food and water containers every 24 hours, and perform a full cage overhaul at least once a month. Record observations in a log to track health trends and adjust care routines accordingly.