Mycoplasma in Mice

Question
Dear Dr. Chambreau:

I have 3 female mice.  I got them in March from woman who had at least 20 living in an all-female colony. One has always had deep-voiced 'chattering.' But lately she paws at her nose and coughs despite having bright, clear eyes and being full of energy. I'm suspecting myco because a second mouse is sounding wheezy.

I have tried exclusion diets for allergens:  Two of the three are very allergic to corn.  Breathing symptoms are worsened by Timothy hay.  I now make bedding out of scrap paper so there is no dust or wood phenols.

Is there an alternative to antibiotics?  I've done a lot of reading (mostly about rats,)and it seems that antibiotics work SOMETIMES for mycoplasma.  There's a vet nearby who was recommended by the rat expert on this site, so she is probably good with mice. I'm considering taking my mice to her for "conventional" treatment.  I'd prefer to avoid that route.  I took a mouse to a vet in 2005.  The treatment worked briefly, but was useless long-term.

Answer
Yes, there are many alternatives to antibiotics, Brynne. You will need to find a holistic practitioner near you, if possible, who specializes in the holistic or integrative approach AND small exotics.

1. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine: www.IVAS.org & www.TCVM.com - there are some listing from around the world.
2. Homeopath (these can often help you by phone or email  if no other holistic practitioners are nearby that you like): www.theAVH.org
3. Chiropractor - www.animalchiropractic.org
4. Wide range of other treatments: www.AHVMA.org, American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association

Since the homeopathic veterinarians can consult by phone, that will help if you find no-one near you. Dr. Ramelmeier - (410) 531-9213, and Dr. Doug Yearout 425-334-8171 are two who are good. You can look for others who treat the exotics on the www.theAVH.org list.

Good healing without antibiotics,
Dr. Chambreau