Mouse litter, also called substrate or bedding, lines an enclosure to absorb waste and control odors. It also provides the medium for mice to engage in natural behaviors like digging, burrowing, and nesting. A suitable substrate allows for these instinctual activities, which contribute to their overall well-being and enrichment.
Safe and Recommended Litter Materials
Paper-based products are a widely recommended option. These beddings, often made from recycled paper pulp, are soft, highly absorbent, and low in dust. Their soft texture is gentle on a mouse’s sensitive feet, and their structure allows mice to create and maintain tunnels and nests.
Aspen shavings are another excellent choice for mouse enclosures. Unlike softwoods, aspen is a hardwood and does not contain harmful aromatic oils that can damage a mouse’s respiratory system. Aspen is particularly good at holding the shape of burrows, enabling mice to construct sturdy tunnels. Its safety makes it a superior wood-based choice.
Hemp bedding has also gained popularity as a safe substrate. Derived from the stalk of the hemp plant, this material is virtually dust-free, which is beneficial for respiratory health. It is also highly absorbent and possesses natural anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, contributing to a cleaner habitat. For owners seeking a natural alternative to wood, hemp provides a reliable solution.
Litter Materials to Avoid
Cedar and untreated softwood shavings, such as most pine, are particularly dangerous and must be avoided. These woods release aromatic oils, or phenols, which are toxic to small animals. These oils can cause significant damage to the liver and sensitive respiratory system, leading to chronic illness.
Any substrate that creates a substantial amount of dust should also be avoided. Fine dust particles can be inhaled by mice, leading to respiratory infections. For this reason, materials like clay-based cat litters are unsuitable. Litters containing artificial fragrances can also irritate a mouse’s delicate respiratory tract, as strong scents can be overwhelming.
Cotton or other “fluffy” nesting materials pose a serious risk. If ingested, these fibers can cause fatal intestinal blockages because they cannot be digested. Additionally, the fine strands can become entangled around a mouse’s limbs, cutting off circulation and causing severe injury. Safer nesting alternatives include shredded, ink-free paper or tissues.
Litter Depth and Cage Maintenance
Providing an adequate depth of litter is fundamental for a mouse’s well-being. A deep layer of substrate, ideally between four to six inches, allows them to engage in burrowing and creating tunnel systems. This activity mimics their natural environment, providing a sense of security and reducing stress. A shallow layer of litter prevents these behaviors.
Maintaining a clean cage involves both daily spot cleaning and periodic larger changes. Spot cleaning consists of removing soiled bedding and waste daily to manage odor and hygiene. Full or partial cage cleans should be performed less frequently to avoid causing unnecessary stress, as mice rely on familiar scents to feel secure.
When it is time for a more significant clean, it is beneficial to retain a small amount of the old, unsoiled bedding. Mixing this reserved substrate with the fresh material helps preserve the familiar scent of the colony. This simple step can significantly reduce the anxiety mice experience during a cage cleaning, making the transition smoother.