Set up the mouse enclosure before choosing positions for shelters and resources.
Check the enclosure and location
In its mouse care guide, PDSA recommends a barred cage with gaps no wider than 6 mm, solid flooring, different levels and good airflow.
Check actual openings and access panels, not just a product's mouse label. Follow the matching assembly instructions and resolve an unclear fastening with the supplier before adding animals; a general care guide cannot identify missing kit parts.
Choose a quiet, ventilated location away from draughts and direct sunlight, following RSPCA guidance.
Arrange routes and retreats
The RSPCA behaviour guide recommends horizontal and vertical dividers, such as shelves and climbing facilities. Provide burrowing opportunities while retaining access to check the mice.
Choose shelters with several exits and room for a mouse to turn around.
Draw the arrangement before fastening accessories. Check the route between a shelter, the water position and the rest of the enclosure: an accessory that blocks an opening needs another position. Leave yourself access to inspect and maintain the equipment.
Separate bedding from nest materials
PDSA suggests paper/card base bedding and shredded paper, tissue or hay for nests. Avoid thin-stranded cotton-like material.
The two roles belong on separate lines of your shopping list. Read what the actual package contains instead of transferring a bedding choice from another rodent's enclosure. This guide does not establish suitability for newborn or breeding animals.
Make water checks possible
Check nozzles morning and evening for blockage or leaks, including nesting material pushed against them.
Allow access for that check when choosing the mounting position. Our small-pet bottle flow and leak guide covers the equipment task.
Before collection, finish the assembly, place the intended food and water resources, and list any unanswered fitting questions. Ask the adoption team about the actual mice's existing care arrangements. Preparing accommodation is a separate job from introducing unfamiliar mice to one another.
