How Long Do Mice Live as Pets?

Mice are popular pets due to their small size, low cost, and ease of care. However, it is important to know how long mice typically live as pets before deciding if one is the right pet for you.

Average Lifespan of a Pet Mouse

The average lifespan of a pet mouse is 1-2 years, with some mice living up to 3 years. Female mice tend to live longer than male mice, and mice that are well-cared for and have a healthy diet and lifestyle are more likely to live longer than mice that are not.

Factors that Affect a Pet Mouse's Lifespan

Several factors can affect a pet mouse's lifespan, including:

• Genetics: Some strains of mice are more prone to certain diseases and health problems that can shorten their lifespan.
• Diet: A diet that is high in fat and sugar can contribute to obesity and other health problems, which can shorten a mouse's lifespan.
• Exercise: Mice need regular exercise to stay healthy and prevent obesity. A lack of exercise can lead to health problems, such as heart disease and diabetes, that can shorten a mouse's lifespan.
• Stress: Stress from overcrowding, a dirty cage, or other stressors can weaken a mouse's immune system and make it more susceptible to disease.
• Veterinary Care: Mice should have regular checkups with a veterinarian to ensure they are healthy and to catch any health problems early. Early detection and treatment of health problems can help to extend a mouse's lifespan.

How to Help Your Pet Mouse Live Longer

There are several things you can do to help your pet mouse live a longer, healthier life, including:

• Provide a healthy diet: Feed your mouse a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid feeding your mouse sugary foods, fatty foods, or processed foods.
• Make sure your mouse has regular exercise: Give your mouse a wheel or other toys to play with, and encourage it to explore its cage. You can also take your mouse out of its cage for supervised playtime.
• Keep your mouse's cage clean: Clean your mouse's cage at least once a week, and replace the bedding regularly. This will help to prevent your mouse from getting sick.
• Provide your mouse with plenty of toys: Toys can help to keep your mouse entertained and stimulated. This can help to reduce stress and promote overall health.
• Take your mouse to the veterinarian for regular checkups: Regular checkups can help to catch any health problems early, when they are easier to treat. This can help to extend your mouse's lifespan.

By following these tips, you can help your pet mouse live a longer, healthier life.