baby orphan mouse

Question
I rescued a baby mouse on Friday. He has been eating formula every 2 - 4 hours, up until as recently as 7:30 am today. i had to bring him to tbhe office so I could continte his 2-hour feedings, but now he appears to be so severely dehydrated now that he will barely take water. I thought he was dead but he finally started moving and will suck on the paintbrush just little. He did just make a\quite a big (for him) poo also. I have grown quite attached to the little guy. What else can I do?

Answer
Hi Sandie,

It sounds like you're doing a great job so far, and I'm not positive what's causing his dehydration.  If I had any tips to offer, it would be to make sure he stays warm (a heating pad below his cage on its lowest setting helps, but feel the bottom of it frequently to make sure it isn't getting hot), keep him away from drafts, and make sure his formula is lactose-free.  Kitten or puppy milk replacement is a good formula and can be watered down for hydration - lactose, on the other hand, cannot be digested by mice, and might be causing his problems.

I can only guess with what you've told me, though, since I am not there - it might be a good idea to get a local expert's assistance, since even 100% healthy orphaned pups are extremely difficult to take care of.  You might try calling around to your local vets, rescues, wildlife rehabilitators, and pet shops to see if there are any people who might be able to personally take a look at him and give you a hand.  Lastly, I would check out this site, which has virtually everything one needs to know on raising orphans:  http://www.rmca.org/Articles/orphans.htm

The fact that you've been caring for him since Friday means you're doing a good job!  However, pups are extremely fragile.  Sometimes you can do everything right and they still might not make it.  It might be the temperature, the formula, or it even might be genetics or an internal problem.  There is simply no way for me to know without being there.  Hopefully one of my suggestions or that link can help you out!  Please let me know if you have any more questions.  Best of luck to the little guy!

-Tam