How to Avoid Common Mouse Diseases

If you keep pet mice, then you're probably aware of the diseases that mice can carry. Although not as susceptible to infection as rats, mice can still carry a range of potentially deadly diseases and disorders. You want to keep an eye out for any possible diseases that infect your pet mice.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check the eyes and nose for any type of discharge. If you see signs of discharge, then most likely your pet mouse has a respiratory infection.

2. Watch the mouse's behavior. If you see one of your mice acting out of sorts that can also mean that they have a disease. You may see a decreased appetite or lack of activity.

3. Assume that your mouse has a skin condition if you see it scratching or its skin begins flaking off. These signs indicate that the mouse has mites or lice.

4. Separate the mouse if you suspect that it has a disease. You don't want the condition to spread to the other mice. Also, practice good hygiene when handling a sick mouse. Wash your hands, wear gloves and clean the cage that houses the sick mouse.

5. Take your mouse to a vet. If you are concerned about a possible disease in one of your pet mice, then find a vet and ask her advice.

Tips & Warnings

• You may need to find a specialized vet to treat your sick mouse. Not all vets handle exotic animal cases.
• Don't ignore a sick mouse and expect it to improve on its own. You risk the mouse's life and the infection spreading to the other mice.