African Pygmy Care guide

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Pygmy mice have a high rate of metabolism. A good diet consists of a combination of seeds, nuts, and block food such as mazuri. You should give them parakeet or finch seed every day. The fruits and vegetables can be fresh, frozen, or dried. We highly recommend sticking to low sugar friutes such as apple or cucumber, absolutely no citrus. Sunflower seeds can be added to their diet. Rodent block can also be used for a source of protein and vitimins seed alone cannot provide. Block food can also offer chewing enrichment for the little ones. Try to offer a variety of these items since all pygmy mice don't have the same preferences. Dog biscuits can also be given as a treat once or twice a week. Provide fresh water in a water bottle, water silo, or bowl daily. You can use a water bowl but it is best to place several small rocks in the bowl so if they fall in, they can get out.

 Pygmy mice should be housed in a 5 gallon (or larger) aquarium. A heavy screen top is the best cover. Pygmy mice benefit greatly from climing and verticle space so something like a 12 x12 x 18 terrarium can offer more verticle space and room for enrichment. Wood shavings or aspen bedding provide a suitable bedding material and all types of wood except cedar are acceptable. Pygmy mice can exercise inside the aquarium and love to play. An exercise wheel should be added to their habitat preferably saucer style 5in or larger. Pygmy mice like to crawl through pieces of PVC pipe or toilet paper rolls. Branches and ladders can be spread around so they can climb from one to the other. Pygmy mice cannot tolerate temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Although they are nocturnal, in a comfortable environment they can be observed at odd moments during the day. My colonies have favoured the late evening, and although they can be startled by sudden movement they do not seem alarmed by sounds.

Due to their tiny stature and speed, African Pygmy Mice are not a species that can be handled as it would be far too easy to damage them accidentally. Care must be taken as a startled African Pygmy Mouse can jump around 18 inches. They are very swift and agile climbers and due to their fast metabolism do consume a lot of food and water for their size.

African pygmy mice are social, active, and easily startled rodents with a temperament that makes them good look but dont touch pets for those who enjoy caring for animals but don't want to cuddle them

African pygmy mice are communal and should be kept in trios or small colonies. They can be shyer and less active if kept alone or in pairs. Both males and females of this species are able to cohab in same sex trios or more. Mixed sex groups are not recommended at all as they can reproduce rapidly.