Cage Setup

Cages can be adapted from glass aquariums, storage containers, or bought from a pet store.  Different cages have different benefits and disadvantages.  Although glass cages are very sturdy, attractive, and usually quite roomy, they can have limited air circulation and become excellent hosts for bacteria. Never allow the cage to become moist from soiled bedding or a leaky water bottle.  Also, one must be careful not to place a glass cage under any sunlight because the temperature inside can easily increase to a lethal level.

  Plastic and wire cages are the most commonly used. A wire cage will allow for maximum ventilation, but the natural smell of your mice (especially if you have males) will be far more noticeable.  Whether you choose to keep your mice in plastic, glass, or wire cages, the most important thing to do is clean the cage often!

corn cob litter

Changing the litter at least once a week will help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and ensure that your pet will always have a healthy environment to live in. I feel that the most economical bedding is corncob litter. It is usually available in bulk at pet stores. Other bedding options include Carefresh© and woodbased products.

(Note: it is recommended not to use pine and cedar bedding with rodents because they can cause respiratory irritation and liver problems).

Mice love to stay close to each other and will often construct a nest to stay in if provided the materials. The easiset thing is to give your mice a length of toilet paper, egg crates, other cardboard, or strips of material.

Baby mice cuddling

within the nest

amysnicemice@hotmail.com

© 2003 Amy Fluitt