Mice

Mouse Care at Advanced Animal Care ER

Loving and Expert Care for Your Pet Mouse

At Advanced Animal Care ER, we understand that mice are small, active, and intelligent animals that require proper care to live happy, healthy lives. Whether you are a first-time mouse owner or an experienced enthusiast, we are here to provide the best care for your mouse, from routine wellness exams to emergency treatments.

What to Expect During Your Mouse's Visit:

When you bring your mouse to Advanced Animal Care ER, you can expect compassionate care from our veterinary team. Here’s what to expect during an initial visit:

• Comprehensive Physical Exam: Our veterinarian will perform a thorough exam to check your mouse’s overall health, including their fur, eyes, teeth, and body condition.

• Diet and Environment Review: We’ll discuss your mouse’s diet, habitat, and any behavioral changes. Proper nutrition and a clean, safe environment are essential to their well-being.

• Diagnostic Testing: If needed, we may recommend diagnostic tests such as bloodwork, fecal exams, or x-rays to diagnose any underlying health conditions.

• Personalized Care Plan: Based on the exam and diagnostic results, we’ll create a personalized care plan for your mouse, which may include dietary adjustments, habitat changes, or treatment for any health conditions.

Common Mouse Health Concerns We Treat:

Mice are generally healthy animals, but they are susceptible to a variety of health issues. Some of the most common concerns we treat include:

• Respiratory Infections: Mice are prone to upper respiratory infections, which can cause symptoms like sneezing, nasal discharge, and labored breathing.

• Mites and Skin Infections: Mice can develop skin issues, including mite infestations, which cause itching and hair loss.

• Dental Problems: Mice’s teeth grow continuously and can become overgrown if they don’t have proper items to chew on.

• Cancer: Mice can develop tumors, particularly as they age.

• Obesity: Overfeeding and lack of exercise can lead to obesity, which causes a variety of health problems.

• Parasites: Mice are susceptible to parasites, including fleas, mites, and intestinal worms.

Mouse Care FAQs:

What are the different types or breeds of mice?
There are many types and breeds of pet mice, including:

• Fancy Mice: These are domesticated mice bred specifically as pets. They come in a variety of colors and coat types.

• Wild Mice: While not commonly kept as pets, some people may keep wild mice as pets, though they tend to be more aggressive and harder to handle.

What is a fancy mouse pet?
A fancy mouse is a domesticated breed of mouse, typically bred for companionship rather than wild purposes. These mice are bred to be friendly, with a variety of coat colors and patterns.

Can you keep a house mouse or a wild mouse as a pet?
While house mice can technically be kept as pets, wild mice should not be kept as pets due to their aggressive nature and potential to carry diseases. It’s best to adopt a domesticated fancy mouse from a breeder or rescue.

Are mice dangerous?
No, mice are generally harmless. However, wild mice can carry diseases and should be avoided. Domesticated mice are safe when cared for properly.

Are mice good pets?
Yes, mice can make great pets. They are active, curious, and easy to care for. They are ideal for people who want a low-maintenance pet that doesn’t require a lot of space.

Are mice good pets for kids?
Mice can be good pets for kids, but they should be handled with care. Supervision is recommended, especially with younger children, to ensure the mouse is treated gently.

Do mice bite?
Mice can bite if they feel threatened or startled. To prevent biting, make sure to handle your mouse gently and regularly.

Are mice scared of humans?
Mice can be timid at first, but with proper handling and socialization, they can become friendly and comfortable with humans. They are generally more active in the evening and night.

Are mice smart?
Yes, mice are quite intelligent and can learn to recognize their owners and even perform simple tricks or navigate mazes. They enjoy mental stimulation, like toys and puzzles.

What should I know to have a pet mouse?
Mice are low-maintenance pets but do need a clean, safe, and enriching environment. They need:

• A spacious cage

• Bedding for burrowing

• A wheel for exercise

• Regular handling to build trust and companionship

Are mice better in pairs?
Mice are social animals and prefer the company of other mice, especially of the same sex. Male mice can sometimes fight, so keeping females together is often easier. However, each mouse's temperament can vary.

Do pet mice smell?
Mice do not have a strong odor, but their cage can develop an odor if not cleaned regularly. Be sure to clean the cage frequently and change the bedding to minimize smells.

What do I need for a pet mouse cage or habitat?
A suitable mouse cage should include:

• A solid floor

• Bedding for burrowing (avoid cedar or pine)

• Exercise wheel (silent and solid)

• Food and water dishes

• Hiding spots for security and comfort

What do mouse droppings look like?
Mouse droppings are small, dark, and cylindrical, roughly 1/4 inch long. They may appear in clusters.

Why do mice poop so much?
Mice have a high metabolism and need to eat and drink frequently. As a result, they produce droppings frequently. It's normal for them to poop several times a day.

What do pet mice eat?
Mice are omnivores and need a balanced diet that includes:

• High-quality mouse pellets

• Fresh fruits and vegetables (such as apples, carrots, and spinach)

• Protein sources (like small pieces of cooked chicken or eggs)

Are mice carnivores, herbivores, or omnivores?
Mice are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. They need a balanced diet with a variety of foods.

Do mice like cheese?
Mice do like cheese, but it should only be given occasionally as a treat. It’s best to provide them with fresh fruits and vegetables and high-quality pellets.

Are mice cannibals?
While mice do not generally cannibalize each other, they may do so in extreme circumstances, such as in response to overcrowding, stress, or a lack of food.

How long do pet mice live?
Pet mice typically live for 1.5 to 2 years. Some may live longer with proper care.

How big are mice, or how big do they get?
Adult mice typically grow to 2.5-4 inches in body length, with a tail about the same length.

How often do mice reproduce?
Female mice can reproduce as early as 6 weeks old, and they can have 4-12 babies per litter. Mice breed frequently and have up to 10 litters per year.

How long are mice pregnant?
Mice have a short pregnancy, typically lasting about 19-21 days.

How many mice are typically in a litter?
Mice can have 4-12 babies per litter, but litters of up to 20 are possible.

Are mice safe to be around other pets?
Mice can be safely kept around other pets if supervised, but they should be kept separate from larger animals like dogs and cats that might view them as prey.

Do dogs eat mice?
Yes, dogs may try to chase and eat mice, so it’s important to keep your mouse in a secure environment away from other pets.

Do mice carry diseases?
Mice can carry diseases like salmonella, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), and hantavirus. Always practice good hygiene when handling your mouse.

Do mice carry rabies?
Mice are not common carriers of rabies, though they can potentially be exposed to the disease from other wildlife.

Can mice be blind?
Yes, mice can be born blind or may lose their vision due to age or health issues.

Do mice need shots or vaccinations?
Mice do not require routine vaccinations, but they should receive annual veterinary check-ups to ensure good health.

How do I know if I have a sick mouse?
Sick mice may exhibit:

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite

• Labored breathing

• Diarrhea

• Weight loss

How soon should I bring my mouse in to see a veterinarian for behavior changes, such as not eating and drinking?
If your mouse is not eating or drinking, or shows significant behavior changes, it’s important to bring them in as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours.

Signs Your Mouse Needs Immediate Care:

If your mouse exhibits any of the following symptoms, it may need urgent care:

• Lethargy

• Labored breathing

• Weight loss

• Severe diarrhea

• Excessive drooling

If you notice these symptoms, contact us immediately for urgent care.

How to Schedule an Appointment:

To schedule an appointment for your mouse, call Advanced Animal Care Emergency at 859-625-5678. Our team is here to provide the best care for your pet mouse.