When choosing a habitat for a fancy mouse, the most important consideration is ventilation combined with bar spacing narrow enough to prevent escapes. Fancy mice are agile climbers and notorious chewers, so a wire cage with a solid plastic base is safer and healthier than glass aquariums, which trap ammonia fumes from urine. Our editorial team reviewed the top options for security, ease of cleaning, and space for enrichment.

Unlike hamsters, fancy mice are highly social and need room for multiple hideouts, a running wheel, and climbing branches. Look for a habitat with a deep base to hold bedding, secure locks, and horizontal bars for climbing. Avoid wood or fabric enclosures, as mice can chew through them quickly.