1. Basic Information About Pet Mice
   Pet mice, scientifically known as Mus musculus domesticus, are domesticated forms of laboratory mice adapted to home environments. They typically live for 1.5–3 years, are highly intelligent, and open to socialization.

General Characteristics:

• Average size: 6–10 cm (excluding the tail)

• Weight: 25–40 grams

• Social structure: Prefer living in groups

• Activity: Nocturnal (active at night)

• Trainability: Can learn their names and take food from the hand

They are especially ideal as starter pets for teaching children to love animals and for improving observational skills.

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1. Are Mice Really Clean?
   Yes—contrary to common belief, pet mice are very clean animals. They groom themselves regularly, often use a specific corner for toileting, and care about hygiene.

• They constantly groom their fur

• They can develop toilet habits

• If the cage is kept clean, no bad odor will occur

Note: Bad odors usually come from a neglected cage, not the animal itself.

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1. Choosing the Right Cage: A Suitable Home for Mice
   Pet mice love to climb, chew, and explore. For this reason, their living spaces should not only be spacious but also enriched.

Cage Features:

• Size: Minimum 60×40×40 cm (larger for multiple mice)

• Levels: Multi-tiered systems provide climbing areas

• Bar spacing: No larger than 0.5 cm

• Base: Plastic, flat, and easy to clean

• Top cover: Must be secure to prevent escape

The cage should also be tall enough to satisfy their natural climbing instincts.

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1. Cage Enrichment and Toys
   Mice are intelligent and may become stressed when bored. Environmental enrichment is essential.

• Exercise wheel: Must be quiet and solid-surfaced

• Tunnels: Can be made from PVC or cardboard

• Houses: Small wooden or plastic hideouts

• Chew toys: Essential for dental health

• Climbing ropes and bridges: Increase activity space

All accessories should be disinfected at least once a week.

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1. Bedding and Cleaning
   A mouse’s quality of life is directly linked to bedding choice and cleaning frequency.

Best Bedding Options:

• Dust-free paper-based bedding

• Corn cob bedding

• Natural wood shavings (not cedar or pine)

Avoid:

• Cedar and pine shavings (harmful to the respiratory system)

• Cat litter

• Cotton or fluffy fiber materials

Cleaning Routine:

• Daily: Remove wet bedding and droppings

• Weekly: Replace all bedding and disinfect the cage

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1. Nutrition: A Healthy and Balanced Diet
   Mice are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant- and animal-based foods.

Diet Basics:

• Pellet feed: High-quality, balanced protein formula

• Grains: Oats, wheat, barley

• Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, zucchini, cucumber

• Fruits: Apple, banana, grapes (small amounts, weekly)

• Protein sources: Boiled egg, low-salt cheese, boiled chicken

Avoid:

• Chocolate

• Onion, garlic

• Salty snacks

• Soda and milk products

Water: Must always have fresh water. A water bottle or drip bottle is ideal.

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1. Socialization and Trainability
   Mice are social animals and dislike being alone. Usually, two or more of the same gender should be kept together.

Training and Interaction:

• Can respond to their names

• Build trust by taking food from your hand

• Allow controlled out-of-cage playtime

• During the first days: let them sniff your hand without forcing—patience is key

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1. Health Monitoring: Watch for Subtle Signs
   Mice often hide symptoms of illness, making careful observation essential.

Warning Signs:

• Discharge from nose or eyes

• Loss of appetite

• Dull coat

• Constant scratching

• Lethargy or unsteady walking

Veterinary Care: Always consult an exotic pet veterinarian.

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1. Breeding and Neutering
   Mice reproduce very quickly. Keeping males and females together will lead to overpopulation.

• 1 female + 1 male = babies in 20–30 days

• Females can give birth to 5–12 pups at a time

• Neutering (usually males) should only be done by a veterinarian

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1. A Safe Home Environment for Pet Mice
   Because mice are small, they can escape through tiny openings. Play areas must be secured.

Safety Tips:

• Hide electrical cables

• Block access to open windows and balconies

• Keep them away from other pets

• Prevent access to cleaning products

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1. Behavioral Enrichment for Pet Mice
   With their high intelligence, mice need mental stimulation to avoid stress or destructive behavior.

Mental Enrichment Ideas:

• Mazes

• Colorful toys

• Food-finding games

• Rotating toys weekly to maintain novelty

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1. Fighting Prejudices Against Mice
   In society, the word “mouse” often has negative associations. But pet mice are:

• Clean

• Trainable

• Gentle and friendly

Breaking these prejudices is possible through the right information. Especially for children, pet mice can be both educational and inspiring.

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Conclusion: Small Size, Big Personality
Pet mice, despite their tiny bodies, are intelligent, playful, and social animals that can be wonderful companions at home. With proper cage setup, balanced nutrition, regular cleaning, and loving care, both your life and theirs will be enriched.

Remember: Pet mice are not dirty—they’re misunderstood. If you give them a chance, they will surprise you with how clean, smart, and endearing they truly are.