Thinking about bringing a pet into your home? Even a tiny mouse requires careful consideration and planning.
While mice are undeniably cute, they may not be the perfect pet for everyone. They have their own unique quirks and characteristics that some people adore while others may find challenging. Before deciding to add these adorable creatures to your family, let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of keeping mice as pets.
Pros of Mice as Pets
Let’s begin with the positives of having mice as pets.
Mice Love to Play
Mice are entertaining and affectionate little creatures that can be quite engaging if you invest time in bonding with them. They make great interactive pets and enjoy socializing, especially when treats are involved!
Just like humans, mice have their own unique personalities and charming habits. They stay busy by running on their exercise wheel, burrowing, storing treats, and grooming themselves.
They’re Clean and Tidy
Despite common misconceptions, mice are actually clean and tidy animals. They like to keep their cages organized, store their food, and groom themselves multiple times a day to maintain a clean and shiny coat.
While litter training mice can be a bit challenging, they usually use a specific spot for toileting. By adding litter material to that spot, you can keep their cage clean and odor-free.
They Are Fun to Hang Out With
Mice seem to have endless amounts of energy. They enjoy being active, running around their cage, and interacting with both their mouse and human companions.
You may find yourself turning off the TV just to watch your mice play!
Minimal Shedding and Allergies
Mice make wonderful pets, especially for those with allergies. They shed much less hair than cats or dogs and can be contained in a specific area of the house due to their small size.
Mice produce fewer allergens compared to other pets like cats, dogs, hamsters, rabbits, chinchillas, and guinea pigs.
They Show Affection
Mice express their happiness when they hear their owner’s voice and feel their presence. They can form strong bonds with their owners and become a source of fascination within the family.
While mice live in cages, it’s important to regularly take them out to interact and play. Although they may not enjoy excessive handling, they do appreciate being in the company of their owners.
Mice Are Fairly Low Maintenance
Compared to other common pets, mice are relatively low-maintenance. They have modest dietary requirements and don’t need a lot of space.
Providing them with a suitable diet, a spacious and comfortable cage, engaging toys, attention from their owners, and necessary vet care when needed are essential for their well-being. When these needs are met, mice are easy pets to care for, even in comparison to other small rodents like rats and guinea pigs.
They Are Smart
Mice are intelligent creatures, with levels of intelligence comparable to rats. They are observant and adept problem solvers, making them fascinating companions. While they are commonly used as test subjects in laboratories, they make much better pets. Mice are emotionally complex and can form deep bonds with other mice and their human companions.
They Are Quiet
Mice are generally quiet pets. The only noises you may hear from them are when they’re running on their exercise wheel or occasionally interacting with each other. Otherwise, they are quite peaceful.
If you plan on keeping them in your bedroom, be aware that they are most active during the night, which could potentially disturb light sleepers.
They Are Not a Long-term Commitment
For those who prefer shorter commitments than those required by cats and dogs, mice are wonderful pets that will be part of your life for up to 2 years.
Cons of Keeping Mice as Pets
Now, let’s explore the drawbacks of owning pet mice. It’s important to consider these factors before making a decision.
Short Life Span
While mice are not a long-term commitment, their short lifespan of 1 to 2 years can be heartbreaking for owners. Some mice may live up to 3 years, but losing a pet within a short period can be emotionally challenging.
It’s essential to be prepared for the inevitable loss before bringing mice into your home.
Initial Costs Are Higher Than Most People Expect
Although mice are considered affordable pets, the initial costs may exceed expectations.
While purchasing a small cage and basic supplies for under $100 is possible, such a setup will not provide adequate comfort for your mice. They require a more enriching environment to thrive.
It’s crucial not to skimp on supplies, as mice need a properly sized cage, quality food, and plenty of toys and accessories to keep them stimulated. Additionally, mice are prone to various health issues, so having a vet fund for emergencies is advisable.
Small and Fragile
Due to their small and delicate bodies, mice should be handled with care, especially around young children. These fragile creatures may not be the ideal pets for kids.
Initial shyness and sensitivity may require patience and gentleness when interacting with mice.
They Don’t Always Like Being Handled
Mice are not fond of prolonged handling or cuddling. They prefer to stay active and may not enjoy being held for extended periods. While individual mice may vary in their preferences, it’s important to respect their boundaries.
Choosing mice from reputable breeders known for good temperament can increase the chances of having friendly and sociable pets.
They Are Crepuscular
Mice are active during the evenings and at night, preferring to rest during the day. While they can adapt to their owner’s schedule, their natural rhythm aligns well with adults working during the day and children attending school.
Male Mice Can Have an Unpleasant Smell
Male mice may emit a strong odor from their urine as they mark their territory in the cage. While some odor control methods may help, be prepared for potential unpleasant smells.
Visiting existing mice owners to assess your tolerance for the smell before adopting male mice can be beneficial. Female mice, on the other hand, tend to be less odorous, offering a solution to this issue.
Can Fall Sick Easily & Finding a Vet is Not Easy
Similar to other pets, mice are susceptible to various health issues such as colds, diarrhea, mites, tumors, and respiratory infections. It’s crucial to locate a local exotic vet experienced in treating mice before bringing them home, as finding suitable medical care for them can be challenging.
Preparing in advance by identifying a vet familiar with mice can prevent unnecessary stress in emergency situations.
Great Pets for the Right People
Mice are delightful, relatively low-maintenance pets ideal for individuals who can accommodate the challenges of mouse ownership. While not recommended for young children due to handling difficulties, mice require proper care like any other pet.
Regular cage cleaning, a specific diet, and appropriate handling are essential for their well-being. Mice bring joy and intelligence to a household, each with its distinct personality.
If you decide to welcome mice into your home, consider adopting from a shelter or reputable breeder rather than purchasing from a pet store.