How to Take Care of a Mouse as a Pet

Introduction

Pet mice are small, fast, and fascinating animals that are often underestimated as pets. They're intelligent, social, and entertaining to watch — and they require less space than most other small pets. Here's a complete guide on how to take care of a mouse as a pet.

Mice Are Social — Keep Females in Groups

Female mice (does) are highly social and should be kept in groups of two or more. They groom each other, sleep together, and are much happier with companions. Male mice (bucks) are territorial and must be kept alone or they will fight. If you want a group, choose females.

Housing

Mice need a secure, well-ventilated enclosure with enough space to run, climb, and burrow. The best options are:

• Glass tank with mesh lid — The AWXZOM Mini Reptile Glass Terrarium (12x8x6 inches) is a secure, escape-proof option suitable for a pair of mice. Glass tanks prevent substrate from being kicked out and allow for deep bedding.
• Bin cage — A large plastic storage bin with ventilation holes; inexpensive and allows for deep bedding

Avoid small wire cages with bar spacing wider than 6mm — mice can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps.

Bedding

Mice need at least 4–6 inches of bedding for burrowing. Oxbow Pure Comfort Bedding is 99.9% dust-free and highly absorbent — excellent for mice prone to respiratory issues. Natural aspen wood shavings are a safe, affordable alternative. Avoid cedar and pine shavings.

Diet

Mice are omnivores with simple dietary needs:

• Quality mouse/hamster mix — Kaytee Supreme Hamster & Gerbil Food works well for mice too; provides a nutritionally complete base
• Fresh vegetables — Small amounts of broccoli, cucumber, and leafy greens 2–3 times per week
• Occasional protein — A small piece of cooked chicken or mealworm once or twice a week
• Treats — Oxbow Organic Rewards Biscuits for bonding and enrichment
• Fresh water — Via no-drip water bottle, changed daily

Exercise and Enrichment

Mice need a solid-surface exercise wheel (6–8 inch minimum). The Niteangel Super-Silent Wheel (S) is an excellent choice. Provide cardboard tubes, wooden hideouts like the kathson Wooden Hideout, and apple wood chew sticks for enrichment. Scatter feed some of the daily food ration in the bedding to encourage natural foraging.

Handling

Mice are fast and can be skittish, but most tame well with daily gentle handling. Use the scoop method — never grab from above or by the tail. Build trust through hand feeding with small treats. Handle in the evening when mice are naturally active.

Cleaning

Spot-clean the toilet corner daily. Do a partial bedding change weekly and a full cage clean monthly using Rocco & Roxie Enzyme Cleaner to eliminate odors. Save a small amount of old bedding to add back after cleaning to reduce stress.

Health Basics

Mice are prone to respiratory infections, tumors (especially females), and mite infestations. They deteriorate quickly when ill — act within 24 hours if you notice changes in eating, activity, or droppings. Find an exotic animal vet before you need one.

Lifespan

Pet mice typically live 1.5–3 years. Their short lifespan is something to consider, especially for families with children.

Conclusion

Pet mice are charming, low-maintenance, and endlessly entertaining small pets. Keep females in groups, provide deep bedding, a quality wheel, and daily interaction — and you'll have some of the most active and engaging small pets you can own.