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Dwarf mouse as a pet (Gerbillus amoenus)
The dwarf mouse (Latin: Gerbillus amoenus ) is a small, gerbil-like rodent native to arid regions. They are alert, lightning-fast creatures that thrive in a well-equipped terrarium with plenty of digging opportunities and a nice sandy area.
This species is classified as a pet in the Netherlands on the pet and hobby list. In practice, this means you can keep dwarf dwarf mice, provided you can provide them with the right habitat and care.
Dwarf mouse in brief
- ✔ Social: dwarf mice are usually kept together (stable duo or group)
- ✔ Active and curious: plenty of digging layers , tunnels and hiding places are important
- ✔ Housing: preferably a terrarium/gerbilarium with plenty of floor surface and height for a deep layer
- ✔ Daily: fresh water, controlled feeding, quick check of the enclosure
Character & behavior
Pygmy dwarf mice are true spectators : incredibly fast, alert, and constantly exploring, digging, and foraging. They generally don't like being handled, but you can tame them through gentle introduction, a consistent routine, and rewards by hand.
Because they're so mobile, a safe environment is important: plenty of hiding places, multiple routes, and sufficient "underground" opportunities. This is where their natural behavior is most visible.
Keep together
Pygmy dwarf mice are inherently social animals . In many cases, a stable pair or group (that has grown up together) works best. Bringing together unfamiliar adults can actually cause stress and conflict.
- ✔ Preferably choose a duo/group from one harmonious group
- ✔ Provide multiple hiding places and feeding areas (more than the number of animals)
- ✔ Watch for signs of tension (chasing, squeaking, clamping, bite wounds)
Accommodation & furnishings
A terrarium/gerbilarium usually works best for dwarf mice: it allows for a deep digging layer , keeps things organized, and allows for easy creation of zones (for digging, sand, food, and resting). A wire cage is often less suitable because it rarely allows for a truly deep digging layer.
Equipment that almost always works
- ✔ Multiple shelters with at least 2 entrances
- ✔ Tunnels and bridges (also partly processed "underground")
- ✔ Foraging area: scattered food, herbs, cardboard for searching
- ✔ Possibly a running wheel with a closed running surface and sufficient diameter
Place the enclosure in a quiet area of your home: away from drafts, direct sunlight, and not near major noise sources. A stable room temperature is ideal.
Ground cover & sand bath
For running and digging, you primarily need structure : a mix of ground covers (e.g., fiber/hemp/paper/cardboard/hay) often makes tunnels more stable than using a single species. Build a deep layer so they can truly dig and nest.
A sand bath is also essential. Dwarf mice love to roll and "bathe" in fine, suitable sand and also use it as enrichment. Choose a sturdy sandbox that isn't too light and place it as a permanent zone in the enclosure.
Power supply
Pygmy dwarf mice naturally forage for seeds and plant material, supplemented with small amounts of animal protein. Indoors, this usually works best if:
- Basis : a suitable (gerbil/desert) seed mix or varied mix
- Supplement : herbs and fiber-rich green foods in small quantities
- Proteins : occasionally animal proteins (e.g. dried insects) as a supplement
Tip: Try hiding your food or scattering it around. This provides immediate enrichment and prevents gobbling.
Handling & Taming
Dwarf mice are often faster than you expect. Therefore, work calmly and predictably:
- ✔ Let them get used to your presence and voice first
- ✔ Reward with a treat from your hand (for short periods)
- ✔ Use a “stepping hand” or a tunnel/tray rather than grabbing from above
Hygiene & maintenance
Practical maintenance schedule
- ✔ 2–3 times a week: remove wet spots/corners (spot clean)
- ✔ Once a week: sift or partially refresh the sand bath
- ✔ Every few weeks: partial change of substrate (not all at once)
Important: Always leave some of the clean, used equipment behind. The familiar scent helps maintain a calm atmosphere in the group.
Useful shopping links for dwarf mice
Below you will find categories that are often useful when setting up and caring for dwarf mice:
- Everything for mice
- Mouse cages (also useful as inspiration for setups)
- Mouse bedding
- Mouse sandbox & sand pits
- Mouse nesting material
- Mouse houses & tunnels
- Mouse toys (foraging, sniffing, enrichment)
- Mouse running wheels
- Mouse food & snacks
- Animal proteins (as a supplement)
- Drinking bottles & feeding bowls
FAQ – frequently asked questions
Can you keep dwarf mice alone?
Usually not. They are social animals that often relax better in a stable duo or group and exhibit more natural behavior.
Is a barred cage suitable?
A terrarium/gerbilarium is often more practical, because it is much easier to build up a deep digging layer and a solid sand zone.
Do dwarf mice need a sand bath?
A sand bath is highly recommended. It's enriching and part of their grooming behavior (rolling/"bathing").
How big should the accommodation be?
Choose: plenty of floor space and sufficient height for a deep layer. The larger, the better. For small groups, an enclosure of approximately 100 cm in length or more is often used, depending on the group size and layout.
Are dwarf mice nocturnal?
They can be active both during the day and at night. Therefore, it's best not to place the enclosure in a bedroom.
When should you contact a veterinarian?
If they experience significant weight loss, shortness of breath, persistent diarrhea, wounds, tilted head, or become lethargic, or if they are experiencing significant weight loss, always contact a veterinarian experienced in small rodents.
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