Female mice pairings

Question
My female mouse's companion died recently. I'm relunctant to get another but can my remaining mouse cope without a companion and if so what should I do to keep her happy? She is 2 1/2 years old and seems happy although it's only been a week. I will get a companion if its necessary because I don't want her to suffer.

Answer
Dear Orchid,

Your mouse will be much happier with a friend.  The only reason not to is if you are phasing mice out of the household.  It is best to always have 3 girls together so this doesn't happen-- a single mouse who has lost her only friend can get depressed and is at far greater risk for illness or mites.  Pick up a couple of little ones so they don't bully her, since she is elderly.

If you don't want to keep on mousing, you need to give her a lot of extra love-- a single mouse needs at least an hour of quality people-time in the best of situations.  She needs you more right now.  Keep her on your shoulder or in your sleeve as you do other things so she can be with you a lot.

Best to her : ))

squeaks,

Natasha