male mouse all alone

Question
I bought my son White mice at a petstore and was just asked if I wanted males or females, not researching I chose males. That was Sunday it is now tuesday and one of them has died. Im not sure if the mouse was sick or if it was stress from the other male. The mouse died in my hand and when I looked at it, It had bite marks all over its tail. They were very loud when fighting but slept together. My son wants me to buy another mouse but Im afraid he will do the same. But is it mean to leave him alone???

Answer
Dear Michelle,

I can't get over the irresponsibility of some pet stores. Male mice don't get along*.  As you experienced, they will fight to the death.  This mouse probably died from a combination of infection and the multiple stresses of moving, being in a new place, and fighting/ being attacked. Poor little thing.  Not the happiest first lesson for your son to learn.  If you are the outspoken type-- complain to the pet store.  They should at least give you your money back, and if they can change their practice or better train their employees that's even better.

Like most male mice, your new pet will probably have to live alone. Single mice need more love than mice in groups do-- he will need at least one quality person-hour a day.  You are his mouse friends, and if he does not feel loved by you he will be sad and lonely.  Try to establish a close connection with him right away.  The period just when a mouse becomes a single mouse is an important one to take advantage of.  Cup him in your hands and let him feel at home and safe with you. if you are not too ticklish, let him explore your clothing.  A lot of hand contact is nice even as he walks along.  He will also like being near your face and being kissed.

Enjoy your new friend. It wasn't a great beginning but this is the start of a wonderful relationship!

squeaks,

Natasha

*Male mice do sometimes get along with litter mates if they have never been separated.