How to keep a mouse as a pet? - briefly
Provide a spacious cage with bedding, hideouts, and a secure water bottle; feed a balanced diet of commercial mouse pellets supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional protein treats. Maintain regular cleaning, monitor health signs, and handle gently to build trust and prevent stress.
How to keep a mouse as a pet? - in detail
Keeping a mouse as a companion requires a secure enclosure, balanced nutrition, regular cleaning, health monitoring, and mental stimulation.
A suitable cage should be made of solid plastic or metal, with a wire top that prevents escape. Minimum dimensions are 30 × 30 × 30 cm for a single mouse; larger space is advisable for more than one. Provide a solid floor covered with absorbent bedding such as aspen shavings; avoid pine or cedar, which contain oils harmful to rodents. Include a hide box, a wheel with a solid surface, and climbing accessories to encourage natural behaviors.
Nutrition consists of a high‑quality mouse pellet as the staple, supplemented with fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli) and occasional protein sources such as boiled egg or mealworms. Fresh water must be available at all times in a sipper bottle; replace it daily. Limit sugary treats to prevent obesity and dental problems.
Cleaning routine: spot‑clean droppings and wet bedding daily. Perform a full cage change weekly, washing all items with mild, unscented soap and rinsing thoroughly. Disinfect the enclosure with a dilute solution of white vinegar or a commercial rodent-safe sanitizer, then dry completely before reuse.
Health considerations: observe for signs of illness, including lethargy, ruffled fur, nasal discharge, or abnormal stool. Trim nails only if they become excessively long; otherwise, they wear down naturally on climbing structures. Schedule a veterinary check‑up with a small‑animal specialist at least once a year.
Handling: begin with gentle, short sessions to build trust. Support the mouse’s body fully, avoiding sudden movements. Frequent, calm interaction reduces stress and facilitates bonding. Never pick up a mouse by the tail; this can cause spinal injury.
Enrichment: rotate toys and rearrange accessories weekly to maintain interest. Provide tunnels, chew blocks, and foraging opportunities by scattering small food pieces in the bedding. These activities promote exercise and mental health.
Legal and ethical aspects: verify that local regulations permit keeping mice as pets, and source the animal from a reputable breeder or rescue organization. Ensure the mouse is not a protected wild species.
By adhering to these guidelines, owners can provide a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment that meets the physiological and behavioral needs of a pet mouse.