Even though most people often disregard them as unhygienic and unaffectionate, fancy mice are clean, low-maintenance pets that don’t require much space to thrive. As opposed to cats and dogs who can wreak havoc with your furniture, these adorable critters keep a low profile and stick to their cages.
Don’t let that fool you into thinking that fancy mice aren’t active. With some time, you can train yours to play with you; how fun!
If you want a fancy mouse with distinctive markings and an affectionate temperament, look no further because we have an inkling that Himalayan mice are right up your alley! So keep reading to find out why you should get a Himalayan fancy mouse.
What Are Himalayan Mice?
Himalayan mice are a variety of fancy mice with white coats, tinted points (tails, ears, noses, and feet), and big ears. Himalayan mice result from breeding albino mice with Siamese ones.
The term, Himalayan, refers to the coat color of the mouse in question, not its breed, coat density, or hair pattern. Thanks to their small size, seven inches on average, Himalayan mice make for amazing pets for people short on space.
Himalayan Mouse Varieties
Luckily, you don’t have to settle for one type of Himalayans, as there are several coat types to choose from. For example, you can pick between satin (high gloss) and matte-coated Himalayans. As for coat length, Himalayan mice can be either short or long-haired.
We recommend short-haired Himalayans for potential pet owners suffering from allergies. This coat variation can substantially reduce the possibility of your allergy acting up.
While seal-point Himalayans, mice with chocolate extremities, are the most popular, you can also find lilac or blue-point ones. However, they can be rare since most breeders perceive darker points as a sign of purer and more attractive Himalayans.
Differences Between Himalayan and Siamese Mice
Most people mistake Siamese mice for Himalayan ones since the differences are extremely slight. However, the terms Siamese and Himalayan refer to two diverse coat markings.
Siamese mice are often beige with dark extremities while Himalayans are bright white, a trait passed from albino mice to their Himalayan offspring. Red eyes, one of the distinctive features of Himalayans, can also be used to differentiate between the Siamese and Himalayan varieties easily.
Why Should You Get a Pet Himalayan Mouse?
In addition to their beautiful coat markings and cute ears, here are some reasons why you should get a Himalayan as a pet.
They’re Smart and Active
We hear you; most low-maintenance pets like turtles and fish, in particular, just laze around all day! Nevertheless, you won’t face this problem if you opt for a Himalayan. Those unique creatures are highly inquisitive and active, so there’s no dull moment spent around them!
They’re also especially good at figuring out mazes. So, if you have some time to train yours with tasty treats after building some trust, you’ll have plenty of fun watching it solve your little puzzles.
They’re Social
Contrary to popular belief, Himalayans aren’t reclusive by nature. They’re actually sociable and enjoy the company of both humans and other mice. You’d be surprised how many Himalayans love to sit in their owners’ laps!
Although they don’t have sharp eyesight, Himalayans identify their owners by their smell and voice, so your fancy mouse will undoubtedly be chipper when you come back from work after a long day.
They Require Minimum Maintenance
With a dog or a cat, you’d often be worried about booking a grooming appointment with your vet. However, if you get a Himalayan, you can take grooming out of the equation altogether because fancy mice are excellent self-groomers!
Himalayans are very clean creatures, and as long as you uphold safety precautions and avoid nuzzling or kissing yours, there’s really no risk of it spreading germs or diseases.
Pet Himalayan mice require a simple 20-gallon aquarium or 12 x 12 x 12-inch gnaw-proof cage with pellets or linens as bedding. In addition, you can fill the cage with a feed dish, water bottle, and training wheel to provide your mouse with a fun activity.
What Is a Himalayan Mouse’s Average Lifespan?
Most Himalayan mice live from a year and a half to two years. However, health problems like intestinal parasites, ticks, and fleas can diminish a Himalayan’s lifespan, so semi-annual vet checkups are recommended to keep yours in tip-top shape for longer.
Can I Use Cedar or Pine As Bedding?
Cedar and pine release toxins harmful to Himalayans and can cause serious health issues, including organ failure. We recommend sticking with linens, shredded paper, pellets, and aspen shavings.
Is It Okay to Pair Two Male Himalayans?
Himalayans are better left in same-sex pairs unless you plan to breed yours. Females are usually less territorial than males. Nonetheless, you can put two males in the same cage if you provide each with its feeding dish, training wheel, and water bottle.
Do Himalayan Mice Bite?
Himalayans don’t bite unless provoked. Ensure that you know how to hold your pet Himalayan to avoid aggravating it. To lift it, cup your hands under it and put it gently in your lap. Lifting your Himalayan by its tail is a big no-no, as it can break its fragile bones.
Do Himalayans Require Vaccinations?
Unlike most other pets, Himalayan fancy mice don’t need any vaccinations. However, if you notice that yours has some bald patches or sunken eyes or if it sleeps more than 14-16 hours a day, this is definitely a red flag, and you should check with a vet as soon as possible.
What Do Himalayans Eat?
Himalayan mice aren’t fussy eaters. So, you can offer yours almonds, seeds, leafy vegetables, apples, and melons. But while they don’t have many dietary restrictions, it’s better not to give them any corn or insects as these can cause health issues.
Is It Better to Buy Himalayans From a Breeder?
It’s always a good idea to reach out to a breeder when buying Himalayans, especially if you’re planning to get a satin one. We also recommend contacting a breeder who’s a member of the American Fancy Rat & Mouse Association (AFRMA) if you want to enlist your Himalayans in competition shows where gene purity is a judging criterion.
Bottom Line
Although they seem unassuming, Himalayan fancy mice are fantastic pets for those short on time, money, and space. Not only do they look delightful, but they’re also friendly and loving.
All you need is a few simple supplies and a reputable breeder, and you’re good to go. So, give these little bundles of cuteness a chance and get a Himalayan mouse today!