Can You Keep Wild Mice as Pets?

Wild mice are small, furry creatures that can be found all over the world. They are often seen as pests, but some people keep them as pets. If you are considering keeping a wild mouse as a pet, there are a few things you should know.

Are Wild Mice Good Pets?

Wild mice can make good pets for people who are looking for a low-maintenance animal. They are relatively easy to care for, and they don't require a lot of space. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you decide to bring a wild mouse into your home.

First, wild mice are not as domesticated as other pets, such as cats and dogs. This means that they may be more likely to bite or scratch you. They can also be more difficult to train, and they may not be as affectionate as other pets.

Second, wild mice can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans. These diseases include hantavirus, salmonella, and tularemia. It is important to take precautions to avoid being infected with these diseases, such as washing your hands after handling your mouse and keeping your mouse's cage clean.

What Kind of Care Do Wild Mice Need?

If you decide to keep a wild mouse as a pet, it is important to provide it with the proper care. This includes providing your mouse with a safe and secure cage, a healthy diet, and plenty of opportunities to exercise.

The cage for your wild mouse should be at least 10 gallons in size. The cage should have a solid bottom and plenty of ventilation. The cage should also be escape-proof, as wild mice are good at climbing and jumping.

The diet of a wild mouse should consist of a variety of foods, including seeds, grains, fruits, and vegetables. You can also give your mouse commercial mouse food. It is important to make sure that your mouse always has access to fresh water.

Wild mice need plenty of opportunities to exercise. You can provide your mouse with a wheel or a ball to run in. You can also take your mouse out of its cage for supervised playtime.

Conclusion

Wild mice can make good pets for people who are looking for a low-maintenance animal. However, it is important to remember that wild mice are not as domesticated as other pets, and they can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans. If you decide to keep a wild mouse as a pet, it is important to provide it with the proper care.