An effective way to pick up a mouse is by "trapping" the animal between your hands. Start by placing one hand on each side of the mouse, then gently bringing your hands together to scoop it up.

While this method works well if you keep the mouse in an aquarium-type cage, you may find that another method works better if you keep the mouse in a cage with a hinged door. In this case, grasp the mouse by the based of the tail, then lift it from the cage. Avoid grasping the animal by the end or tip of the tail, as this will make it easier for the mouse to slip away.

At times it may be necessary for you to inspect your mouse. The best way to do this is to hold the mouse at the scruff of the neck with your thumb and index finger. Then hold the tail gently with your last two fingers. This should allow you to have your other hand free to inspect the animal's coat and skin.

Author(s): Romina Vitols

Critters Home Page: Critter Library: Handling

©Copyright 1999, Fancy Publications, Inc. All rights Reserved.