How to Care for a Pet Mouse

Taking care of a mouse seems like hard work, but it really isn't. A lot of caring for mice is common sense. The rest of it is really just caring about your mouse enough to ensure it is safe, comfortable and healthy. Keep in mind that your mouse should live no less than 11 1/2 years when cared for properly. They can even live longer.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage
  • Food
  • Bedding
  • Treats
  • Toys
  • Veterinarian experienced with mice and willing to treat them regularly
Show More

Instructions

  1. Nutrition

    • 1

      Feed your mouse food that enables it to receive all of its nutrients. This includes "pet block" and mouse and rat mix.

    • 2

      Add supplements if your mouse is not getting enough vitamins and minerals. There are salt and mineral blocks and vitamin supplements that you can add to their water.

    • 3

      Give additional foods only as treats. Otherwise, your mouse may get too much of one vitamin and not enough of others.

    • 4

      Take your mouse to the vet if it is not eating properly for more than 1 or 2 days.

    Environment

    • 5

      Keep your mouse away from drafts, heat and direct sunlight. If it gets too hot or cold, it cannot get away from it.

    • 6

      Use bedding to cover the floor of the cage. This makes it more comfortable for the mouse and soaks up urine. This should be changed once a week or when it gets dirty, whichever happens first.

    • 7

      Keep your mouse's cage clean, with plenty of food and water.

    • 8

      Be sure to change the food out if it gets wet to avoid mold.

    • 9

      Install an exercise wheel for your mouse. They need to exercise, and this is the most enjoyable way for them to do so.

    • 10

      Allow your mouse to chew on wood gnaws. This helps them to keep their teeth short.