Signs that a mouse is ill

Getting to know your mice and their normal behaviour will make it much easier to tell when they are not feeling well. In general though a poorly mouse may display any or even all of the following symptoms:

Looking hunched up or generally dishevelled
Squeaky, laboured or otherwise noisy breathing
Porphyrin (a red discharge often mistaken for blood) round the eyes and/or nose
Lethargic and cool to the touch
Not eating/drinking
Diarrhoea or constipation
Constant Scratching

If you see any of these it is important to visit a vet a soon as possible as mice can deteriorate very rapidly. For advice on choosing a vet and to find a small animal friendly practice in your area please see the article Choosing a vet or go to the UK Vets page in the useful links section of the site.