My mouse bit me D:

by ThePrairieNerd Mon 07 Aug 2017, 7:38 pm

I got my very first mouse last Friday and I've been working on getting him used to me by laying my hand inside his cage, sometimes with treats. Today after handling him and letting him run around on my bed I got him a baby carrot. He sniffed the carrot, then sniffed my finger then chomped down on the tip of my finger. That actually didn't hurt too bad but my gut reaction was to pull back. I put my hand back in his cage and he climbed up on my hand and bit the lower part of my finger. Hard. He didn't draw blood, but it hurt like crap. Then he took the carrot. Rolling Eyes

I'm afraid I set a precedent letting him get a reaction out of me- what do I do?

Also, did I jump the gun in handling him? Should I leave him alone for a day or two?

Thanks!

by Mice Are Cute Mon 07 Aug 2017, 8:21 pm

When did you start handling him? Since it has been so little time, I wouldn't worry. He'll come around! Very Happy

by scaredymouse Mon 07 Aug 2017, 8:46 pm

don't hand feed him until he is tame. your fingers smell like food, he's getting confused. wash your hands really well, ideally with unscented soap, and try to tame him like that.

when I have new mice, after a taming session, then i'll sprinkle treats in the tank. he'll know where they came from and will still associate them with you but won't mistake your fingers for food.

and it's not too early to begin working with him.