Sneezing

Question
I recently purchased a white male mouse about a month and a half ago and he is constantly sneezing, and I can't take him to a vet. What do you think is wrong with him? What should I do?

Answer
Hi Seth,

Sneezing is almost always a sign of an upper respiratory tract infection, or a URI.  You can buy tetracycline from a pet store or feed store for a lot less than the cost of a vet visit, and give it to him in his water (covered in foil to keep the light out of the medicine) for at least two weeks.  Here are instructions on how to use it:  http://en.allexperts.com/q/Mice-3824/2010/2/Tetracycline-directions-sneezing-mou...

If he gets worse, he may need more specific antibiotics from a vet.  Since you said you can't go to one, you could ask your local pet shelters if they know any rodent or exotic rescue organizations who may be able to get you discount care or prescriptions.  If he doesn't get any better or worse, the sneezing could be a remnant of having been sick in the past, but I wouldn't assume this until you've tried antibiotics as URIs can become very serious if not treated.  Remember, though, if he does respond to the antibiotics and his sneezing stops, keep him on it anyways for the full two weeks to avoid it coming back.

Best of luck, and I hope he feels better soon  :)
-Tam