Mice Medicine

Question
QUESTION: OK thanks for that tip on the colored light, I will look into that.  went to the pet store just now and all their mice seemed healthy, including the cage mine were from. The mice seem still less active then usual even in the dark under the blanket. One is on the wheel constantly though. She seems fine. The rest seem ok and one of them, same as this morning is very bad. wont move unless touched. I have her under the blanket in a separate cage and in hay, for warmth and some food. I could not find the tetracycline at the pet store, i asked they guy, looked in the fish center and i couldnt find it. Please be specific on that as im going to another pet store tomorrow to look Again. Thanks for your help. Hope to here from u soon.

         Bob

ANSWER: Hmm, I know tetracycline may be available in different forms - liquid, powdered, capsule or tablet.  You could also try calling feed stores, as they sometimes carry medications for livestock that you can dilute down.  You could also try tylosin in a pinch, but I don't think it works as well as tetracycline.  Your very first stop tomorrow should be the vet, as that could save you a lot of time driving around for medications.  Best of luck!

-Tam

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

QUESTION: Hey Tam,
Im having a bit of a problem. You see, im still 13 and my parents say that 60 bucks is a little much to be spending on a 3 dollar mouse. I have argued with them and even offered to pay for it myself. But, they still say no. Dont get me wrong if it gets worse and more get sick, they will goto the vet and they are very kind to animals and very supportive of me having pets. and my passion for animals. They just cant see spending the money on it. Tomsrow Im going to the best pet store in my whole city. The guy im going to is on the news all the time. He has a weekly show on peta of all kinds. Im sure his pet store will have it. I will try it and if it doesnt improve then i will goto the pet. Or if he doesnt have it i will goto the pet. Im really pushing for the vet too but, when ur a kid u gotta live with what your parents say.

Bob

P.s please dont get me wrong my parents love animals too its just the cost of it all. All the vets around me are big bucks.  

Answer
Hey Bob,

I completely understand, my parents were the same way.  It's not always possible, so you just do what you can.  Ask the guy at the pet store for the tetracycline because that's your best bet, and if he doesn't have it, ask him for tylosin or baytril just in case.  He probably won't have those last two, as they're antibiotics you usually have to go to the vet for, but it's worth asking at least.  If your mice are eating and cleaning themselves, those are great signs - just keep them warm and comfortable and get some antibiotics in them if you can.

Small animal vets are expensive; it's the secret cost of owning small mammals.  It's totally understandable that it's not always feasible.  :(  I hope they feel better soon.

-Tam