How to care for a caught mouse? - briefly
Place the mouse in a secure, ventilated container with soft bedding, fresh water, and a small portion of high‑protein food, checking daily for signs of injury or illness. Follow local wildlife guidelines to decide whether to release, rehabilitate, or humanely euthanize the animal.
How to care for a caught mouse? - in detail
When a mouse is captured, the first priority is to assess its condition. Look for signs of injury, bleeding, or respiratory distress. If severe trauma is evident, contact a veterinarian promptly; otherwise, proceed with basic supportive care.
Create a safe enclosure. Use a small plastic container with ventilation holes covered by fine mesh. Line the bottom with soft, absorbent material such as paper towels, changing it regularly to maintain hygiene. Ensure the temperature remains between 20 °C and 25 °C, avoiding drafts and direct sunlight.
Provide hydration and nutrition. Offer fresh water in a shallow dish or a water-soaked cotton ball. Supply high‑energy food such as commercially available mouse pellets, small pieces of fruit, or unsalted boiled egg. Introduce food gradually to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
Monitor health status daily. Check for:
- Weight loss or gain (weigh with a gram‑scale)
- Changes in activity level
- Respiratory sounds (listen for wheezing)
- Signs of parasites or skin lesions
If any abnormality appears, seek professional veterinary advice.
When the mouse appears healthy and the capture was for pest control, consider humane release. Choose a location at least 500 m from the capture site, offering natural cover and food sources. Release during the evening to reduce predation risk.
If release is not feasible or the animal suffers from incurable disease, humane euthanasia should be performed following accepted guidelines, such as using an approved anesthetic agent administered by a qualified professional.
Finally, maintain records of the capture date, condition, care provided, and outcome. Documentation supports responsible wildlife handling and may be required by local regulations.