Re: Sugarplum

Question
QUESTION: Hi again, Tamarah!

I recently wrote you about Sugarplum, and I thank you for your first response. I just have one more question:

The men just turned 2 months old yesterday, and I was wondering if I could breed one of them with Sugarplum 2 weeks from now instead of waiting 4 weeks? Or would they still be too young, do you think?

Thanks a million,

Lydia & the Meecies

ANSWER: Hi again Lydia and the Meecies!

You can definitely breed the men that young.  They won't suffer any consequences by being bred early, though if they are late bloomers it might not be as successful as one would hope!  Immature males might also be a bit awkward, but as long as you don't see Sugarplum showing them aggression or anything, they'll be just fine.  Females are the biggest concern about breeding early, as they actually have to carry the litter!  By the way, I'd love pictures when the babies come along!  :)

-Tam

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

QUESTION: Thanks again!

I know, I'm being really annoying, but we're just really nervous--so I guess as an extra we'll send extra pictures (I still have to upload the first pics!). My camera just isn't doing anything right right now, but I'll get it working... eventually.

Anyway, my mom had a couple more questions as did I since we don't have a vet in the area--they're all either emergency and $500 per visit alone, or there's no good exotic vet around and we're nervous (ugh). So our biggest concern is if she can't get a baby (or 2) out--what do we do then? Or if she passes out, or...dies...? So many concerns!! I know we're speaking in worse case scenario considering her health, but we're just worried with her age but know we might be able to pull it off. My mom also wanted to know if there are key things we should be putting into her diet?

Thanks--AGAIN--and I hope you have a happy Valentine's Day,

Lydia and the Meecies

Answer
Hey again!

You're fine, no worries!

Complications during pregnancy or birthing are the exception, not the rule, even for older mice.  It's good to have a vet picked out for just in case, but you almost certainly won't need it (knocking on wood!).  The only thing I can tell you about the expense is to try talking to local pet shops, rescues, or other small animal organizations to see if there is anyone low cost who can help you in an emergency.  Unfortunately, I just don't know enough about what to do in those particular worst case scenarios to give you any other advice.  I really don't want you to stress about it, though, it's NOT common, and I definitely didn't mean to worry you about it.  Your biggest issue is likely to just be a smaller litter and a harder time successfully mating her, if you have any issue at all.

You should definitely beef up her diet during pregnancy and while she's nursing - add a little protein by mixing dry cat or dog food (small pieces) in with her feed, and every now and then you can give her a special treat by making her a little bit of scrambled egg (either without milk or using kitten milk replacement instead).  Make sure she always has plenty of food in her cage and keep the water fresh and full.  That's about it!  The cat/dog food is great for pups, too, when they get old enough to start experimenting with solid foods.

Have a great Valentine's Day, too!

-Tam