The colored mice, which come in different colors and fur markings, are originally descended from the gray house mouse. The subspecies known today were bred through targeted mating. In addition to the short-haired variant, there are now long-haired, curly and even naked colored mice. These are torturous breeds that must not be supported under any circumstances! The life expectancy of color mice averages 24-36 months. In exceptional cases, a mouse can live up to five years.
Species-appropriate attitude
While the house mouse is active at dusk and at night, the domesticated colored mice can also be active during the day and are very active. A species-appropriate mouse enclosure for two to four animals should be at least 80 x 50 cm. Since they like to climb, the height of the dwelling should not be less than 80 cm.
But as is so often the case: the higher, the better! The more space you have, the better the enclosure can be set up.
furnishings
In nature, mice live in corridors and caves, which should be taken into account when keeping them in a species-appropriate manner. The device should have a three-dimensional structure. In addition to the sleeping house, bowls and drinking troughs should not be missing. There are lots of items of furniture on the market such as ropes, ladders, labyrinths, ramps etc. Items made from natural materials such as grass nests, willow bridges or cork caves are particularly suitable.
Basically anything that is made of non-toxic materials and does not pose a risk of injury is suitable. Mice also love boxes, toilet paper rolls or clay pots as hiding places. Wheels are not without controversy. While they satisfy the urge to run, they can also encourage aggression and cause behavioral problems such as stereotypical running.
An animal-friendly wheel has a minimum diameter of 25 cm, a closed running surface and is closed at the back.
health and nutrition
Due to their low body mass, pet mice react sensitively to temperature fluctuations. The comfortable temperature is between 20-24 °C. In order not to endanger health, the temperature should not be below or above. Direct sunlight or drafts should be avoided. Mice are omnivores. A varied diet of grain, fresh and animal protein feed is optimal. Dried fruit and vegetables, hay, some herbs and grasses are suitable as treats. As with other rodents, abrasion of stats regrowing teeth is important.
social behavior
Mice are kept in groups. Due to the color mouse's willingness to reproduce, either animals of the same sex should be kept together or the male should be castrated before sexual maturity. Socializing can be difficult. Wrong socialization can lead to serious turf wars with serious injuries or even death!
