Should I hand-raise a baby mouse? Will the mother abandon her litter?

Question

I bought a pregnant mouse weeks ago, she gave birth a few days ago. I would like to hand raise one of her babies so that I can have a strong bond with him/her. If I took one of her babies would she abandon/eat the others or become depressed? I have a lot of experience caring for animals in my opinion, and I think I could raise a mouse as I have a lot of free time right now, and I have all the supplies. So I'm just wondering if in doing this I would make the mother eat her kids or become sad. Pet's info: Small Animal | Mouse | Female | unspayed | 2 days old | 0.5 lbs

Todd Cecil · Accepted Answer

Thanks for reaching out about your mice. This is probably not the best idea. First there is no commercially available milk replacer for mice. Mice are not cats or dogs, and therefore those milk replacers are not applicable to mice and will likely lead to abnormal intestinal bacterial proliferation and questionable digestions, and death. Secondly, the mother could reject the remainder of the mice. Recommendations would include allowing mother to raise the babies, but once the babies' eyes are open and eating some solids, the start handling them to acclimate them to your touch, smell, etc. Good luck.

Should I hand-raise a baby mouse? Will the mother abandon her litter?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

Is my female rat pregnant? What are the visual signs of rat pregnancy?

Share