What should you do if a mouse is flooded? - briefly
Turn off electricity, gently place the mouse in a dry, ventilated container, and keep it warm. Then dry and disinfect the flooded area and inspect for any structural damage.
What should you do if a mouse is flooded? - in detail
If a small rodent becomes submerged, immediate action is required to prevent injury or death. First, locate the animal safely, wearing disposable gloves to avoid disease transmission. Gently lift the mouse from the water, supporting its body to avoid additional stress.
Next, assess its condition. Check for breathing, pulse, and signs of hypothermia such as shivering or lethargy. If the animal is not breathing, perform a quick rescue respiration: close the nostrils, cover the mouth, and deliver two gentle breaths. If there is no heartbeat, initiate chest compressions at a rate of 80–100 compressions per minute.
After stabilization, dry the creature thoroughly. Use a soft towel to blot excess moisture, then place it in a warm, dry container lined with clean cloth. Maintain ambient temperature around 30 °C (86 °F) using a heating pad set to low or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel. Monitor the mouse for at least 30 minutes, ensuring it regains normal activity and body heat.
If the animal shows persistent weakness, loss of coordination, or failure to recover, seek professional veterinary care without delay. Provide the veterinarian with details of the incident, including duration of exposure and any first‑aid measures applied.
Finally, implement preventive measures to avoid future incidents: seal gaps in plumbing, install barriers around water sources, and keep food storage elevated. Regularly inspect the environment for leaks or standing water that could attract or trap rodents.