MOUSE  

• Mice are very charming pets.
• They take up little space, are inexpensive to feed and are easy to handle.
• Mice are nocturnal and will be most active in the middle of the night.
• Female mice should be housed together as they are very social, but males should be kept alone.
• A mouse’s average life expectancy is up to 2 years.

Diet

Mice should always be given a fortified diet. They should also be given one teaspoon of chopped carrots, dark green lettuce, squash, brussel sprouts or kale daily. You should also treat your mouse to a teaspoon of fresh fruit such as pears, strawberries and grapes twice a week. All fresh food should be given in small quantities as it may cause an upset stomach. Remove any uneaten food within 24 hours. Additionally, always keep chew sticks or toys in the cage to keep your pet’s front teeth trimmed, as they are constantly growing.

Housing  

Mice love to climb so a glass cage with a snug-fitting lid will allow them to play without being able to escape. If you use a wire cage, then make sure the space between the wires is no larger than 1/2 inch and there is a solid bottom. The minimum cage size should be 12”X12”X12”. The cage should be kept in a cool, draft-free area, with low humidity and out of direct sunlight. Mice love to hide, so provide a layer of good soft bedding that is clean, non-toxic, absorbent, and relatively dust free. Recycled newspaper, or wood shavings (aspen is best) are preferred bedding. Do not use cedar or pine shavings which can lead to respiratory problems. Change the bedding once or twice a week. Remember to wash, rinse and dry the cage bottom, food dishes and water bottle each week. An exercise wheel, with a solid bottom, will encourage your mouse to be active.

Handling & Care

It's very important to handle your mouse gently. Take care to not hold her too tightly. Taming mice is simply a matter of gaining their confidence. Always be patient, gentle, and move slowly. Making friends with your pet and getting him accustomed to you can often be accomplished by offering treats. Most mice love to be petted. You may need to work up to this; however, by letting your mice explore your hand while you hold it very still in their cage. Never pick up a mouse by its tail as the tail is fragile.

Grooming

Mice, especially males, have a tendency to release an odor. Therefore, they should be cleaned with a damp washcloth or unscented baby wipe once a week, or as necessary.

Health

Mice are healthy when they have bright eyes, eats & drinks normally, has well-formed droppings and is active. Contact your veterinarian if you notice weight loss or any of these symptoms:

• Refusal to eat or drink
• Labored breathing, wheezing, sneezing
• Diarrhea/ Change in droppings
• Dull and/or receding eyes
• Overgrown teeth
• Inactive / Lethargic
• Head tilt
• Excessive hair loss / scratching
• Rough hair coat