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My mouse is self-harming, skinny, and has breathing issues. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Mouse | Female | unspayed | 0.02 lbs

My mouse has been suffering from self mutilation, she has lost one ear and her fur is very thin and she seems a lot skinnier than her sister. Her sister is doing fine. I try and apply ointment to her ears when they start to look bad. She is around a year old and I just want her to be comfortable. She is also constantly making loud sneezing like noises but not quite a sneeze. I’m thinking that putting her to sleep may be an option. Please give advice. :)

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on January 12th, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about Cheddar and including photos. These cases are difficult to treat but require systemic antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and topical treatments. Unfortunately, the prognosis on these is not good but worth a try. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Good luck.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 10th, 2020

    Thanks for reaching out about Cheddar. This is a common occurrence in mice but unfortunately a cause has not been established. Autoimmune disease, inflammatory processes and deep bacterial dermatitis are all possible. Have had limited success with systemic antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, topical cream (silver sulfasilvadene [SSD]) combination might help. Prognosis is poor but can give it a try. Good luck.

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