Considering a tiny, whiskered friend to join your family? Pet mice can be wonderful pets, full of personality and relatively easy to care for. If you’re thinking about getting a pet mouse from a retailer like PetSmart, one of your first questions is likely: “How much will this little critter cost me?” Let’s delve into the pricing of pet mice at PetSmart and what other expenses you should consider before bringing your new companion home.
Understanding the Base Cost of a Pet Mouse at PetSmart
The most straightforward cost is the purchase price of the pet mouse itself. At PetSmart, the price of a pet mouse is typically quite affordable, often ranging from $4.99 to $19.99. This price can fluctuate slightly based on a few factors:
- Type of Mouse: PetSmart usually carries common fancy mice, which are domesticated versions of the house mouse bred for their varied colors and markings. Less common or more specialized varieties, if available, might have a slightly higher price tag.
- Location: Prices can sometimes vary marginally by location due to regional market differences.
- Promotions and Sales: PetSmart occasionally runs promotions on small pets and supplies. It’s worth checking their website or local store for any ongoing deals that might reduce the initial cost of your pet mouse.
It’s important to remember that the initial purchase price of the mouse is just the beginning. Like any pet, a mouse requires ongoing care and supplies to live a happy and healthy life.
Beyond the Mouse: Essential Setup Costs
Bringing a pet mouse home involves more than just the initial purchase. You’ll need to create a suitable and comfortable habitat for your new furry friend. Here’s a breakdown of the essential supplies you’ll need to buy, many of which are conveniently available at PetSmart:
- Cage: A proper enclosure is paramount. For mice, wire cages with a solid bottom or plastic tanks with well-ventilated lids are suitable. Avoid cages with wire bottoms as they can hurt a mouse’s delicate feet. A good-sized cage for one or two mice can range from $30 to $80 or more, depending on size and features. Look for cages specifically designed for small animals like hamsters or gerbils, as these are generally appropriate for mice as well.
- Bedding: Mice need bedding to burrow, nest, and absorb waste. Safe bedding options include paper-based bedding (like Carefresh), aspen shavings, or fleece liners. Avoid cedar and pine shavings as they contain oils that are harmful to rodents. Bedding costs will be recurring, but a good-sized bag to start with might cost around $10 to $25.
- Food: A high-quality rodent food formulated for mice is essential for their health. Pelleted food is generally recommended to prevent selective eating. A bag of mouse food can range from $5 to $15 and will last a while, depending on the number of mice you have.
- Water Bottle or Bowl: Mice need constant access to fresh water. A sipper bottle is often preferred as it keeps the water cleaner than a bowl, which can be easily contaminated with bedding. Water bottles range from $5 to $15.
- Food Bowl: While you can scatter feed, a small, shallow food bowl helps keep food contained. These are inexpensive, typically costing $3 to $10.
- Hideouts: Mice are naturally prey animals and need places to feel safe and secure. Provide at least one or two hideouts, such as small houses, tubes, or tunnels. Hideouts can range from $5 to $20 each.
- Toys and Enrichment: To keep your mouse mentally stimulated and prevent boredom, provide toys like chew toys (wooden blocks, cardboard), tunnels, and running wheels (solid surface wheels are safer for their tails). A selection of toys can cost $10 to $30.
These initial setup costs can add up, but they are a one-time investment (excluding recurring bedding and food purchases) that ensures your pet mouse has a comfortable and enriching environment from the start.
Recurring Costs of Mouse Ownership
Beyond the initial setup, you’ll have ongoing costs to consider for the lifespan of your pet mouse, which is typically 1-3 years. These include:
- Food and Bedding Replacements: As mentioned earlier, food and bedding are recurring expenses. Depending on how many mice you have and cage size, you can expect to spend roughly $10 to $30 per month on these essentials.
- Treats and Chews: While not strictly necessary, offering occasional treats like small pieces of fruits, vegetables, or commercial mouse treats can add enrichment to your mouse’s diet. Chew toys will also need replacing as they are worn down. Budget around $5 to $10 per month for these.
- Veterinary Care: While mice are generally hardy, they can still get sick. It’s wise to budget for potential veterinary care. The cost of a vet visit for a small animal can vary, but having a fund set aside for unexpected medical expenses is prudent. Consider setting aside $10 to $20 per month for potential vet costs, or research pet insurance options for small animals, although these are less common than for cats or dogs.
- Cage Cleaning Supplies: You’ll need to regularly clean your mouse’s cage with pet-safe cleaning supplies. These are relatively inexpensive and last a while, costing around $5 to $10 every few months.
Is a Pet Mouse at PetSmart the Right Choice for You?
The cost of a pet mouse at PetSmart is undeniably low, making them an accessible pet for many. However, it’s crucial to look beyond just the initial purchase price. The ongoing costs of housing, feeding, and caring for a mouse should be carefully considered.
Pet mice can be delightful, entertaining, and relatively low-maintenance pets compared to larger animals. They are a great option for individuals or families looking for a small, interactive companion. By understanding both the initial and recurring costs, you can make an informed decision about whether a pet mouse from PetSmart is the right fit for your lifestyle and budget. Remember, providing proper care and a loving environment is the most valuable investment you can make for your new tiny friend.
