How to care for pet mice? - briefly
Provide a balanced diet of commercial mouse pellets, fresh vegetables, and occasional protein, and ensure continuous access to clean water. Maintain a cage with solid flooring, bedding changed weekly, and enrich the environment with tunnels, wheels, and nesting material to promote health.
How to care for pet mice? - in detail
Caring for pet mice requires attention to housing, nutrition, health monitoring, enrichment, and routine handling.
A suitable enclosure should provide at least 10 in² per mouse, with solid flooring, ventilation, and secure lid. Bedding of paper‑based material or aspen shavings prevents respiratory irritation; avoid cedar or pine. A nesting area made of cotton or shredded tissue offers comfort and promotes natural behavior.
Nutrition must include a balanced mouse pellet as staple, supplemented with small portions of fresh vegetables (carrot, broccoli, cucumber) and occasional protein sources (hard‑boiled egg, mealworm). Fresh water should be available at all times via a sipper bottle; check for leakage daily.
Health monitoring involves daily visual inspection for signs of illness: ruffled fur, lethargy, discharge, or abnormal respiration. Weekly weight measurement detects early weight loss. Prompt veterinary consultation is essential if symptoms appear.
Environmental enrichment reduces stress and encourages activity. Provide:
- Chewing blocks or untreated wood pieces
- Tunnels, PVC pipes, or cardboard tubes
- Exercise wheels of appropriate size (minimum 8 cm diameter) to prevent spinal injury
- Hideouts and climbing structures
Handling should occur after the mice have acclimated to the enclosure, typically within the first week. Approach calmly, scoop gently from the base of the enclosure, and support the mouse’s body. Limit sessions to a few minutes to avoid stress.
Cleaning routine includes spot cleaning daily (removing soiled bedding and waste) and full cleaning weekly. Use mild, unscented soap and rinse thoroughly; avoid disinfectants that leave residues.
Temperature should remain between 18 °C and 24 °C, with humidity around 40‑60 %. Sudden drafts or overheating must be prevented.
By maintaining these conditions, the caretaker ensures a healthy, active, and long‑lived mouse population.