The mouse is a popular, somewhat timid, social, intelligent, and entertaining pet, but may not be for everyone. Mice tend to be nocturnal (come out at night), but are active for short periods during the day. They do not shed a lot and seem to cause few allergies for people. They are small and considered a little more fragile than other rodents.
They are reasonably easy to care for and are clean animals (despite popular beliefs) but they do have a strong odor, and their urine is particularly pungent. Mice have a relatively short life expectancy of two to three years. They reproduce frequently and readily. If well-socialized from a young age and treated gently, they are easy to handle, affectionate, and less likely to bite than other rodents.
Rats are extremely intelligent, inquisitive, and social pets. They can be trained to come on command and to perform various tricks. Rats, like mice, tend to be nocturnal but are active for periods during the day. They also do not shed a lot and seem to cause few allergies. They live between two to three years. Rats make good family pets, although they are also great escape artists. Rats are prone to a variety of cancerous conditions. Female rats should be spayed within the first six months to prevent ovarian, uterine, and mammary cancer.
Not only can we provide medical assessments and perform surgical procedures, but we can also help you prevent many diseases related to improper nutrition, which are common in these animals. Please schedule an appointment so we can discuss your mice or rats’ nutritional needs. In addition, we supply a wide range of foods and supplements for these unique animals.