How many mice should I get?

Question
QUESTION: We have had 3 albino mice and none have lasted more than 2 months. We have created a cage according to instructions with aspen, wheel, hiding places, water bottle, regular feeding and playing in our hands, temps in correct range. Is this just a bad breeding issue or are we doing something wrong?

ANSWER: Dear Herb,

Most likely the problem is the pet store. Either they have bad conditions there or there are diseases in the cage; or their breeders have one of those problems or they simply don't breed for health and longevity. Someone in the chain that leads them to you doesn't care about mice.

Definitely do not go to that pet store again. You should let them know what has happened but don't let them try to make it up to you by promising you a healthy mouse. You can't trust them.

Either find a new pet store or a private breeder. If there is a store which has a different cage for feeders as pets, you have a better chance of being sure they are being bred for quality; but many places just breed good mice to use for both.

If you tell me where you are I might be able to direct you to a private breeder, though I can't guarantee it. If you want to Facebook friend me (Natasha Millikan) we might be able to keep better in touch so I can help you solve the problem. Also you will be able to meet my show mice and rats! But please make sure you tell me who you are.

Best of luck.

Squeaks,

Natasha



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

QUESTION: I know a place that has fancy mice and not the feeder mice like Petco where we got the first three mice. How important is it to get two rather than one? We did get two of the albino's the first time.

Answer
Dear Herb,

With males you can only get one per cage, because they fight. So if you just want one mouse get a boy. With girls, since they can live together they must. They are very social creatures. My recommendation is always to have three, so when one dies you don't have a lonely, stressed, single mouse left; who will get depressed and often sick; and you have time to replace the mouse who died. But it is Ok to have two, as long as you replace a dead mouse asap when the death is unexpected or from an illness; otherwise when one of the mice seems old.

When you get a single mouse you are entirely responsible for its emotional well-being. You must be sure to give it at the very least one hour of intimate people-time a day per day, physically on you, in your face or on your hand on in your clothing. You are the only mouse friend it's got.

Best of luck with your new fancy mice.

Squeaks,

Natasha