As an open-access shelter, the AWLA sees a lot of different animals besides dogs and cats, and we want to make sure every pet owner has the information they need to care for their new furry, feather or scaled friend.  For example, mice are great pets for animal lovers of all ages:  They’re smart, affectionate and adorable!  Mice love spending time in and out of their enclosures, with people as well as their best friends, so if you are interested in a rodent roommate (or two or three), learn more about what it takes to be a great mouse friend!

Please note that Poppy and her sisters have recently been adopted, though we have several other mice looking for families to call their own.

Lifestyle

On average, a pet mouse lives for about 2 years and spends her days making tunnels in her tank, getting her steps in on a running wheel and hanging out with other mice or human companions.  Up to four mice of the same sex can live together in a 10-gallon aquarium with a weighted wire cover, but the bigger the tank, the better!  Mice are social creatures and enjoy the company of others, but make sure to check if your mice are male or female before putting them in the same tank to avoid unintended babies.

What’s in the tank?

Mice live in a large tank that is full of bedding you can find at your local pet store.  Their tank needs some basic cleaning each day and a fuller clean each week, which involves emptying and cleaning the tank, replacing the bedding and cleaning all of their toys and bowls.  Mice also need access to food and fresh water all day.  You can buy food for your mouse at your local pet store, and they also enjoy mouse-sized treats of fresh fruits and veggies.  Peas, bananas, carrots, apples, broccoli, zucchini and cucumber are recommended, but avoid cabbage, corn, peanuts, uncooked beans, onions and anything that’s old or spoiled.  When giving your pet mouse a treat, especially when introducing new foods, feed her in moderation.  A little treat goes a long way for a mouse-sized tummy!

Mice play too!

Physical and mental enrichment is important for all of our pets!  Mice get their exercise each day in a running wheel and burrowing in their tank.  When selecting a wheel for your pet, avoid metal or mesh wheels because these can hurt your little friend’s feet.  Mice will play with all sorts of toys, whether you buy special tunnels that aid in their burrowing adventures, balls for them to push around or plush dog toys that they can chew through and create new nests with.  Just make sure those toys aren’t filled with something your mice might choke on!

Mickey goes to the vet!

Just like other pets, pet mice should have an annual wellness exam with an exotic animal veterinarian.  When adopting your mouse, ask about exotic animal veterinarians in your area.

For more information about mice as pets, click HERE to read the ASPCA’s recommendations for mouse care.