mother mouse limp and neglect

Question
My mouse Mhawnie just had babies a week ago. I have notice on her left back leg that she is lifting it off of the ground when she walks, only applying pressure to it when she climbs onto the top of her house. She is also refusing to sleep in the hut with the baby mice and is sleeping outside of it. I'm not sure what to do because I don't want the babies too get to hungry or cold! I am very frustrated! Please help!

Answer
Dear Kacee,

This is a very bad sign.  Mhawnie has somehow hurt herself and is therefore too upset to tend to the babies properly.  Mice get confused sometimes, and also instinct tells them to save themselves over the babies if there is a problem.  Maybe she will figure it out soon, but the babies are in danger now.

It's crucial to keep the babies warm.  Put a heating pad under part of the nest, or a hot water bottle next to the cage.  It mustn't be hot, and they must have someplace to crawl to if it does get too hot for them.

Next, if she truly isn't feeding them, you need to decide if you want to take on the responsibility to help out.  If so, you will need to get some KMR, or kitten milk replacement. You will need to use an eyedropper or small paintbrush.  Rub their tummies gently with a Q-tip after each feeding to help them eliminate.  The mother is supposed to feed them every half hour, so try to make sure they get fed at least every three hours.

I hope Mhawnie gets back on the job soon.

squeaks,
Natasha