What is needed to keep mice at home? - briefly
A secure cage with a solid lid, absorbent bedding, a balanced rodent diet, a water bottle, enrichment objects, and regular cleaning supplies are essential for home mouse care.
What is needed to keep mice at home? - in detail
Keeping pet mice requires a secure enclosure, appropriate bedding, a balanced diet, regular health monitoring, and environmental enrichment.
A cage of minimum 30 × 30 × 30 cm provides sufficient space for a small group; wire mesh with a solid bottom prevents escape and allows easy cleaning. The enclosure must include a lockable door and ventilation without large gaps.
Bedding should be absorbent, dust‑free, and non‑toxic. Aspen shavings, paper pellets, or kiln‑dried coconut fiber are suitable choices; avoid cedar or pine, which contain aromatic oils harmful to rodents’ respiratory systems. Change bedding weekly and spot‑clean daily to maintain hygiene.
Nutrition consists of a commercial mouse pellet formulated for laboratory or pet use, supplemented with fresh vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and leafy greens. Provide a small amount of high‑protein treats (e.g., boiled egg or mealworms) no more than twice a week. Fresh water must be available at all times in a sipper bottle that prevents spillage.
Health care includes routine observation for signs of illness—lethargy, hair loss, nasal discharge, or abnormal stool. A veterinarian experienced with small mammals should conduct an initial health check and advise on vaccination or parasite control if needed.
Enrichment items prevent boredom and promote natural behaviors. Include:
- Nesting material (e.g., shredded paper) for building burrows.
- Chewable objects (untreated wood blocks, mineral chews) to wear down continuously growing incisors.
- Climbing structures (branches, plastic tubes) to encourage exercise.
- A running wheel designed for mice, with a solid surface to avoid foot injury.
Maintain a consistent light‑dark cycle, ideally 12 hours of light followed by 12 hours of darkness, to align with the animals’ circadian rhythm. Keep the cage away from direct sunlight, drafts, and extreme temperatures; ambient room temperature between 18 °C and 24 °C is optimal.
Regular cleaning involves removing all contents, washing the cage with mild, unscented soap, rinsing thoroughly, and drying before adding fresh bedding. Disinfectant solutions should be avoided unless prescribed by a veterinarian, as residues can be toxic.
By adhering to these components—secure housing, proper substrate, balanced nutrition, health oversight, and stimulating environment—owners can ensure the welfare and longevity of pet mice in a domestic setting.