mouse ears

Question
Hi, I have 4 mice. I have this one mouse that has lost the outer part of her ear. It did not bleed or anything. The other ear is starting to do the same. It looks like it scabbed for some reason. I do give her baths in just regular water. I do the same with the others

Answer
Hi Joshua,

First: mice do not need baths. They are very clean creatures, and it is very dangerous to get them wet. If they smell bad, it is the cage that needs cleaning. Males have a distinctive scent but it does not mean they are dirty.

With the ears, that just happens sometimes. If I were a vet (it is clear in my profile that I am not an expert medically), I would probably know why this happens. But it does not affect the rest of the mouse. The ears may become stubs in the end.

I am actually supposed to refuse questions not in my expertise. But it is hard to find good advice about mice (and often it is a question of life and death). But please don't rate me down for knowledge! : ))

There is a link to an actual vet in my profile. If she tells you why, let me know in a follow-up!

Squeaks,

Natasha