How to make a cage for mice? - briefly
Build a wire‑mesh frame with a sealed, ventilated lid and a removable, easy‑to‑clean floor, sized to allow unrestricted movement. Add nesting material, a water bottle, and a feeding station, ensuring all components are securely attached and safe for the animals.
How to make a cage for mice? - in detail
Construct a sturdy, safe enclosure for laboratory or pet mice by following these steps.
Select a base material. Opt for high‑density polyethylene (HDPE) or untreated pine. HDPE resists moisture and chewing; pine provides natural ventilation when untreated. Cut panels to dimensions of at least 12 inches high, 12 inches wide, and 18 inches long per mouse, adding extra space for groups.
Assemble the frame. Use stainless‑steel corner brackets and ¼‑inch galvanized wire mesh for the sides. Secure the mesh with self‑drilling screws, spacing fasteners every 2 inches to prevent gaps. Reinforce the top with a removable acrylic lid, sealed with a silicone gasket to maintain humidity control.
Install interior features. Place a solid wood or plastic nesting box, dimensions 4 × 4 × 4 inches, with a removable lid for easy cleaning. Add a stainless‑steel water bottle with a sipper tube, positioned on the side wall to avoid spillage. Provide a metal feeding tray, anchored to the floor, and a small cardboard tunnel for enrichment.
Ensure ventilation and hygiene. Drill four ½‑inch holes near the upper corners for airflow, covering each with stainless‑steel mesh to block escape. Attach a removable front panel for daily cleaning; use a detachable floor grate to separate bedding from waste.
Finalize the cage. Verify that all edges are smooth, no sharp points remain, and the structure is stable when lifted. Test the lid closure for a secure seal and ensure the water bottle delivers a steady flow without leaks.
Maintenance protocol. Replace bedding weekly, disinfect the interior with a diluted bleach solution (1 % concentration), rinse thoroughly, and dry before re‑adding the mouse. Inspect wire mesh for signs of gnawing regularly; replace compromised sections immediately.
By adhering to these specifications, the enclosure will provide a durable, hygienic environment that meets the physiological and behavioral needs of mice.