What should you do if a mouse falls into water? - briefly
Remove the mouse from the water, gently dry it with a soft cloth, and keep it warm. Promptly take the animal to a veterinarian for professional evaluation and treatment.
What should you do if a mouse falls into water? - in detail
When a small rodent becomes submerged, immediate action is essential to prevent fatal hypothermia and lung damage. First, locate the animal quickly and remove it from the water using gloves or a utensil to avoid bites. Place the creature on a dry, non‑slippery surface such as a towel or paper.
Next, assess breathing. If the mouse is not breathing, perform gentle chest compressions: place a fingertip on the lower chest and apply a light, rhythmic pressure for about 30 seconds, then check for signs of airflow. If breathing resumes, keep the animal upright and monitor.
After confirming respiration, begin the drying process. Pat the fur with absorbent material, then wrap the mouse in a warm, dry cloth. Avoid overheating; the goal is to raise body temperature gradually. Keep the wrapped rodent in a quiet, draft‑free area for 10–15 minutes, checking that it remains breathing and shows signs of alertness, such as movement of whiskers or ears.
If the mouse appears lethargic, unresponsive, or shows persistent distress, seek professional veterinary care promptly. Bring the animal in a ventilated container, noting the time of the incident and any observed symptoms.
Preventative measures include:
- Ensuring water sources (buckets, sinks) are covered or placed out of reach.
- Removing food crumbs and nesting materials near liquid containers.
- Checking for gaps in walls or floors that allow entry into areas with standing water.
Prompt removal, careful breathing assessment, controlled warming, and, when needed, veterinary intervention constitute the complete response to a submerged rodent.