mouse fluctuates in size

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I have 2 fancy mice, both females, they both started off the same size, but now one of them has started to kind of puff up like a balloon, its only happened in the last couple if days, I was wondering if there is any advice you could give me?
I would greatly appreciate it
Thank you

ANSWER: Dear Alice,

If you just got the mice, either one is a male, or one came pregnant. Pet store attendants usually know nothing about sexing mice.

If you are absolutely sure both are female, or have had them for several months, then there is another reason. Some mouse types do get fatter than others. But if it is really only a couple of days, then there could be a problem.

There is a very sad condition where the mouse blows up in size and then sometimes becomes skinny again, repeatedly. I do not know why; I have no medical training. It is fatal and probably painful. I have seen it and two breeders that I know have seen it. One of them did an autopsy and found a small stone-like object in the stomach. I hope very very much that this is not what is happening to your mouse. If, very sadly, it is the case that she changes back between skinny and bloated, the mouse must go to the vet. And then please write back and tell me what the vet said. But I am pretty sure that is not the case, as it is quite rare.

My guess is she will get skinny again- once- but you will hear tiny squeaky noises from the nest. There is no sound quite like the sound of baby mouse pups in the nest. Then you will have all sorts of questions about raising baby mice. Let me first tell you not to handle them until they are 7-8 days old with fur.

The best of health to your girl.

Squeaks,

Natasha






---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you very much for your advice, I have had them for over 6 months now and too them to vet to get sexed. I have noticed today that she is getting skinner again so I will take her to the vet first thing tomorrow, thank you so much again for your advice I will let you know what the vet says :)

Answer
Dear Alice,

Yes, yes, please let me know. This is a question that has been dogging me.

I hope the vet can do something. Be sure to tell them of the results of that breeder's autopsy-- a small stone-like object in the stomach.

Squeaks,

Natasha