When it comes to your mice and their health, there are a few things to look out for to make sure they’re happy and healthy. Here we’ve listed the key factors to consider as your mouse enters their senior years.
Mice are generally healthy animals and typically live between one and two years. They may be small, but like all pets, there are things to look out for as they get older. And like us, most illnesses come with age. Mice are actually more susceptible to developing tumours so it’s worth checking them regularly.
To keep them happy and healthy for as long as you can, we recommend you find a vet who specialises in small pets like mice. This will ensure they get the best possible care if they do become unwell.
A parasite is an organism that lives in or on another living species and thrives off their nutrients. It’s quite common for mice to carry parasites, especially fur mites. Fur mites nestle themselves between the fur which can cause some discomfort including itching, fur loss and inflammation.
Incorrect bedding is one of the most common causes of fur mites. We recommend using small-cut, shredded paper, finacard or white, soft tissue paper bedding. We would also recommend eco-friendly cardboard bedding from Ecobale.
Meanwhile, you should look out for the following signs of parasite infestation:
A parasite infestation can be extremely uncomfortable, especially if it affects their neck and ears. If your mouse is showing any of these symptoms, you should consult your vet for treatment. They may need round-the-clock care to fight the infestation and ensure they’re fully healthy again.
Mice have a much faster metabolic rate compared to larger animals like dogs and also humans. Because of this, tumours can form and begin to grow very quickly. It’s fairly common for elderly mice in particular to get tumours. Mammary and intestinal tumours are the most common and are the most likely to be cancerous.
You should check your mice over for anything unusual regularly, especially when handling them. Use this opportunity to gently feel for any unusual lumps and bumps on their body and abdomen. If you have any concerns or spot something you didn’t see during the last check, take your mouse to the vet.
A mouse is considered an infant from birth to just 21 days of age. After that they’re a juvenile until they reach two months old when they reach adulthood. They enter their twilight years at 12 months old and you might start to notice a few common changes. Here are a few things to look out for:
Remember, these are all very common symptoms and you might spot one or two of them. However, if you think your mice are starting to struggle with them or you notice a strange change in their behaviour, talk to you vet. It’s worth paying them a visit just to check whether they’re still healthy and comfortable and not suffering in pain.
Woodgreen Pets Charity – as featured on Channel 4’s ‘The Dog House’ – is seeking a loving new home for one of its longest residents.
Read more about 'Leggy Lurcher Bella looking for a new home to call her own'
Gerbils are generally quite healthy animals – most of their illnesses come with age.
Read more about 'Your gerbils’ health: what to look out for'
Hamsters are generally healthy animals and can live up to age of three. Until then, there are a few things to look out for when it comes to their health to ensure they live a fulfilling life.
Read more about 'Your hamsters’ health: what to look out for'