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Mice handling

21 15:24:01

Question
Hello,

Just today i got two female mice from a local petco, I've read most of the questions on here, and i think I'm well prepared.  But i have two questions for you, and it would mean alot to me if you could answer them.
question 1. How do you properly hold a mouse?  I know it's not by the tail, but I'm not sure how.
question 2. How can i get my new mice used to me, so that i can hold them and cuddle with them?

thank you for any help, i really appreciate it,
Daisy :D

Answer
Most mice will willingly walk into your hand if you lay it in their cage. If they are hand shy you can entice them with some tasty treats, such as yogies or some frozen peas. It is safe to grasp a mouse by the tail, and it is a myth that it causes them pain...they just don't like being suspended. You must however, never pull on their tail, as you can cause some serious spinal injuries and even cause degloving of the tail if you are holding it by the tip. It's best to grab the base of the tail, or as close to the base as possible. I have seen some pretty sad degloving injuries in pet mice due to improper handling. :(

Here is a great link which pretty much sums up all your questions. :)

http://www.fancymice.info/handling.htm

As far as cuddling with them, be very careful. If you bring them into your bed make sure you do not fall asleep with them, as this can lead to some very serious injuries and even death if you accidently roll over on your mouse. Plus, the chance of escape would be great. I used to carry my mice around with me in a sugar glider pouch, which most seemed to love. :)