Mouse Rescue!

Question
Dear expert,
Last night we were surprised to find that our dog and cat were both playing with a mouse out back. Not knowing the condition of the mouse we quickly shooed the cat and dog indoors, leaving the mouse.
This morning, we found the mouse laying in the exact same spot. He tried to move but did not get very far (he was dragging both of his legs behind him, seems they are broken).
Not having the heart to "take care of it" we decided to put him in a box and continue to check on his condition. In the box we put a tray of water, a slice of pineapple, a few baby carrots, and a slice of bread.
Currently he is sitting in the corner of the small box nibbling on the bread. He still seems very stressed out and is shaking quite a bit, his two hind legs still seeming lame.
I would just like to get some advice on things like what to feed him, what I should make bedding material out of, and any other information I may need.

Thank You!

Answer
Dear Patrick,

Thanks so much for rescuing the poor mouse. Chances are it won't survive long due to infection or internal injuries, but in case it does, let's make it comfortable.

At the pet store you can find either wood chips or something like Carefresh paper litter. He will need a small cage. If he can't walk much, there's no reason to give him a big one. Certainly don't use a multi level. He should also have something soft to sleep in.  Shredded cloth (use one of those socks that the dryer left mate-less) or kleenex is fine for bedding.  You can pick up a seed mix there too.  

However, you might want to wait two days before spending money, to make sure he survives. Kleenex and paper towel are fine for two days; crackers and raw vegetables are enough to eat.

I have another recommendation, and that is that you give him an antibiotic in his water to try to stave off any infection from the bite.  You want to do this as fast as possible. You can get the antibiotic Tetracycline from the FISH section of your pet store. If you have the capsules, open one; if you have the tablets, crush one completely.  Mix 1/4 teaspoon of the powder into about two cups of water. This should be his only source of liquid.  Give it to him in a soda bottle cap which you place right next to him.

If he survives as a cripple, you just need to always make sure he has water and food where he can reach it.  He has had a rough time, but he will appreciate the help he gets and any injuries won't hurt him for long. He may become very sweet and tame and become a great, if unusual, pet.

I truly wish the little guy the very best of luck and health.  I'm so glad you took pity on him.

squeaks,

Natasha