How to raise mouse offspring? - briefly
Provide a temperature‑controlled environment (20‑26 °C, 40‑60 % humidity) with adequate nesting material and a diet of the mother’s milk, transitioning to solid chow after weaning at 3‑4 weeks. Monitor health daily, keep cages clean, and separate sexes before sexual maturity to prevent unintended breeding.
How to raise mouse offspring? - in detail
Raising mouse pups requires precise environmental control, consistent nutrition, and vigilant health monitoring.
A breeding pair should be housed in a cage with solid flooring, ample ventilation, and a temperature maintained between 20 °C and 24 °C. Relative humidity of 45 %–55 % supports optimal development.
Before parturition, provide a nesting box filled with soft material such as shredded paper or cotton. The material must be dry, non‑abrasive, and changed weekly to prevent mold.
At birth, pups are altricial: eyes remain sealed for the first 10–14 days, and they depend entirely on the dam for warmth and milk. The caretaker should avoid handling the litter for the initial 48 hours to prevent maternal stress.
Feeding protocol for the dam influences pup growth:
- First week: ensure ad libitum access to a high‑fat, high‑protein laboratory diet.
- Second week: supplement with a lactation formula if the dam exhibits weight loss.
- Throughout lactation: provide fresh water in a sipper bottle to prevent dehydration.
Health checks should be performed daily without removing pups from the nest:
- Observe for signs of hypothermia (cold paws, reduced movement).
- Inspect for dermatitis or parasitic infestation.
- Verify that the dam is nursing and that all pups are gaining weight; a gain of 1–2 g per day is typical.
Weaning commences at post‑natal day 21. Introduce solid rodent chow in a separate area of the cage, allowing gradual transition. At this stage, separate males and females to prevent premature breeding. Socialization with peers enhances behavioral development and reduces aggression later in life.
Maintain detailed records for each litter, noting birth date, litter size, weight progression, and any health interventions. Accurate documentation facilitates reproducibility in research and supports ethical animal care standards.