How to introduce mice
- By AnonymousMouseOwner
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Introducing mice
Quarantine
Firstly, your new mouse/mice should be quarantined for 3-4 weeks, to make sure they won't spread any illnesses to the mice they are being introduced to. When they are finished with the quarantine period, and show no symptoms of illness, then you can introduce them.
Preparing for the introduction
Next, you will need a place to introduce the mice. This must be neutral territory, meaning no other mice "own" it. This can be a bin, a playpen, or anything nice and clean, that your mice aren't normally in for long periods of time. You will also need to prepare the tank that the group will live in. The tank should be completely cleaned out. Replace the old bedding with fresh bedding, wipe down the walls of the tank with a small pet safe cleaning solution, and wash any toys that can be washed.
Beginning the introduction
Now that the mice have been quarantined and everything is prepared, it's time to introduce them! Transport the mice to the playpen, bin, or whatever you chose, and put them together. There will likely be lots of chasing and maybe even some squeaking. Do not worry, they are just working out who's the new alpha. Watch them closely, and if there is any serious fighting such as biting, separate them quickly. Let them stay in the playpen or bin for about 20-30 minutes. No fighting? Good! You can carry on to the next step. If there is fighting, however, the mice will need to be separated for a few days, then you can try the introduction again.
Moving the mice
This is where things usually get tense, moving the mice to the tank or cage they will live in. Take all the mice that you have introduced, and transport them to their home. Just like you did before, watch closely. Make sure nobody is seriously harming anybody. Again, squeaking and chasing is normal, and so is arguing over things like food and treats. However, biting can be a bad sign. If a mouse starts biting another mouse, separate them, and try to figure out what they were fighting over. If it was a toy, take out that toy. If you aren't sure, and the biting continues, it's best to just stop the introduction and try it again another day.
Conclusion
If you've watched your mice in their home for a while, and they seem ok, you have likely had a successful introduction. You might even find them sleeping together later!
