Overview of Spiny Mice

Spiny mice is a collective term used for mice within Acomys. Spiny mice in the pet trade include the Arabian Spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus dimediatus) and the more commonly available Egyptian spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus cahirinus).

Spiny mice have a lifespan of 3-5 years. They are naturally omnivorous so need a combination of seeds, fruits, vegetables and insects. Protein is an important aspect for their diet and a lack of this can lead to tail-chewing.

Spiny mice would naturally live in the deserts of Africa, Asia and the southern parts of Europe. and so in captivity it is important to keep them at higher temperatures - around 27℃(81&degF). They are excellent chewers so are best kept in a glass tank providing you have made a secure, well ventilated lid. Their environment should include nests, items to chew and tubes and tunnels.