Cairo spiny mice

Madison WI

Description

I am rehoming my three Cairo spiny mice (sometimes known as common spiny mice, Egyptian spiny mice, or Arabian spiny mice). After coexisting with our older cat peacefully for years, our new kitten is overly interested in the mice, and for their safety I'm finding them a new home. These mice will be adopted out to a family who will care for them as pets, not reptile food. The mice are accustomed to handling and do not bite; however, they do require patience when being caught as they are exceptionally crafty and fast! I adopted the mice on November 2nd, 2018, when they were only a few months old, from someone in Seattle, Washington who had an overpopulated colony. Cairo spiny mice have a 4-7 year lifespan, which means they could live up to 4 more years. The three mice are unsexed, but have not had babies together despite years of cohabitation. They are called "spiny" mice because their fur is bristly, unlike the soft fur of other domesticated mouse species. Of the three mice, one mouse has a ripped ear and shortened tail due to an accident early in life before joining our home; the injuries are fully healed and do not impact the mouse's quality of life whatsoever. Another mouse recently shed its "outer" tail when being watched by our kitten; this is normal behavior and the "inner" tail itself is unharmed. In fact, spiny mice have been the subject of considerable scientific study due to their incredible ability to regenerate skin and cartilage. These mice have been otherwise healthy and have not required vet care thus far. Daily care includes replacing their water and filling their food bowl with kibble (we use Oxbow Essentials Mouse & Young Rat Food, found at Petsmart). Weekly care includes replacing their substrate (we use aspen shavings) and their cage with a scraper and soapy water (it gets messy). They will come with their multi-level Ferplast enclosure (dimensions 23.6" x 13.4" x 19.3"). The mice definitely use every inch of this enclosure, and would benefit from an "upgrade" to a larger one; however, in the past they have artfully escaped other models like closed-top aquariums and those with bars spaced too far apart. Inside the enclosure are several levels/ladders, a water bowl, food bowl, some wooden hides, a plastic saucer wheel, and empty toilet roll holders for tunnel play. The set-up is well-used with lots of scratches and some missing chunks where the mice have chewed over the years. The mice would certainly appreciate new toys to explore and destroy. I am asking for a rehoming fee to recoup the cost of the enclosure and supplies. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out; I'm happy to provide resources. Pick up in North Madison; can deliver within a reasonable distance.