What to do if a mouse chokes? - briefly
If a mouse shows signs of choking, inspect its mouth for a visible object and gently extract it with tweezers; if the airway stays blocked, apply gentle back blows and obtain emergency veterinary care without delay.
What to do if a mouse chokes? - in detail
If a rodent shows signs of airway obstruction—gasping, silent coughing, or inability to breathe—act immediately.
First, place the mouse on a stable surface with its head tilted slightly upward. Examine the mouth with gentle fingers; if a visible object is lodged, attempt to remove it using fine tweezers or a blunt instrument, taking care not to push the material deeper.
If the obstruction is not visible or removal fails, perform back blows:
- Hold the mouse securely but gently, supporting the spine.
- Deliver three swift, firm strikes between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand.
- Re‑examine the mouth after each blow; repeat if the object remains.
Should back blows prove ineffective, proceed to abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) adapted for small mammals:
- Position the mouse on its back, supporting the head.
- Place a thumb and forefinger just below the rib cage, forming a small cup.
- Apply quick, upward pressure three times.
- Check the oral cavity after each thrust.
If the airway is still blocked, consider a combination of back blows and thrusts, alternating until the obstruction clears or the animal collapses.
After successful clearance, keep the mouse warm and monitor breathing for at least ten minutes. If the mouse remains unconscious, stops breathing, or shows persistent distress, seek emergency veterinary assistance without delay.
Preventive measures include providing appropriately sized food, avoiding small chewable objects, and regularly inspecting cages for hazards that could be swallowed.