The pet mouse
Lively, sociable and delicate
A companion of human homes since prehistoric times, the mouse is easy to keep and now comes in a great many colours. Lively and inquisitive, it makes an excellent companion, including for children, provided it is handled gently from a very young age.
Its living environment
- It lives alone or in a small group and needs to move about: provide a well-equipped cage (wheel, tunnels, hiding places) measuring at least 60 × 35 × 35 cm.
- Bedding of wood shavings or hemp (never sawdust, which irritates the airways). The urine smells strong: change the bedding at least twice a week.
- Ideal temperature 19-21 °C, away from draughts.
Its diet
The mouse is omnivorous and eats very little (less than 5 g a day). Give it commercial pellets, supplemented in moderation with a little vegetables, fruit, white meat or hard-boiled egg. Avoid fatty foods such as cheese. Renew the water in the drinking bottle every day.
Its health — what to watch for
Consultations are rare, but a few problems do come up. Watch its breathing: repeated sneezing or wheezing signals a respiratory infection. Run your hands over it from time to time: lumps under the skin (tumours) are common and are easier to remove while they are still small. Finally, itching, hair loss or scabs suggest a skin problem (mange or a fungal infection). As this is a very small animal that tires quickly, it is better to consult early.
Content from the Au Furet veterinary practice, rewritten for owners.
In Switzerland: no permit required No permit required, but keeping is subject to the TSchV requirements on living conditions: minimum space, social contact, and appropriate feeding and care. Legal framework in detail →
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