mice-pregnant

Question
Hello, I got 2 mice from the pet store about three weeks ago and after about
a week and a half I noticed one of the mice had two lumps on her sides. Now
they are sticking out about 3/4 of an inch on either side. Do you think she is
pregnant, or is there something wrong? I have never raised baby mice and I'm
not quite sure what to do!
Thank you for your time,
helen

Answer
1 lump on either side could be cancer or an abscess. However, it is highly unlikely she would have them on both sides at the same time. There is a chance it could be an internal problem resulting in bloating and/or swelling.

It sounds to me like shes pregnant (sorry!). 19 - 21 days is the gestation period so you should expect the babies any day now. Don't worry though! I will talk you through everything.

Firstly have a look at the other mouse, is the gap between the anus and the vagina larger on this mouse? If so it's probably a boy. You must remove him before the babies come as he can fertilize her again after giving birth. If it's a girl you can leave her in as she will help raise the babies. Also, if the other mouse is a girl then the pet store sold you a pregnant mouse which is very unprofessional.

Babies aren't difficult, so don't worry! A few days before shes due clean the cage out and give her a nesting house. This could be a lot of things, just have a look at the pet shop but avoid anything made from plastic as they sweat and perspire which makes the bedding wet. I would recommend something without a bottom to it.

Include as many safe nesting materials as you can such as hay, toilet and kitchen roll, shredded dishcloths etc. Feed her her usual mouse food but add things like fresh fruit and veg, nuts, seeds, small pieces of cooked meat, fromage frais and crusty bread. You may also want to include toys such as a wheel (make sure its plastic) and tubes.

The cage won't be cleaned for a few weeks so it is important to remove soiled areas on a daily basis. Resist the temptation to look at the babies before 5 days as the mother may think you are a predator and kill her young. You can play with them from 5 days as long as it doesn't stress the mother. If it does wait till 8 days to handle them. Start with a few seconds each 3 times a day and build it up.

Their eyes open between 12 - 14 days and this is when they start to eat solid food. They also reach the 'flea' stage at this point. They are difficult to handle so keep a firm grip of their tail! They settle down around 3 weeks.

They should be sexed and separated at 5 weeks (the girls can stay with their mum).

I hope I haven't overloaded you with information, if you have any more questions please feel free to ask.