Mouse Weaning Checklist

Use this checklist when weaning mice to make sure each step is completed and new cages are set up correctly. Work through the items in order and finish with the visual check before leaving the room.

1. Confirm mice are appropriate weaning size
2. Wipe down hood with Peroxigard and gather supplies including:
   • Parent cage, new cages, cage card holders, blank cage cards, hydrogel
3. Wipe outside of all cages and hydrogel cups with Peroxigard
4. Separate by sex into new cages (up to 5 mice per cage)
5. Add food to wire side of cage insert (also add mash if mice are small or unthrifty)
   • Do not place food pellets directly in bedding
   • Do not place food pellets into hydrogel cup
6. Remove top of the hydrogel cup and add to each new cage
7. Add hut to any singly housed mice
8. Fill out new cage cards and green breeding card
9. Place new cage acetate over cage cards
10. Wipe lixits with Peroxigard, confirm function, and place cages on rack
11. Report any health concerns via ULAR Med
12. Complete final visual check before leaving room
13. Recheck weanlings and replace supportive care until thriving on own

Article ID: 149
Created: September 14, 2026
Last Updated: September 14, 2026

Online URL: https://ohiostateresearch.knowledgebase.co/article/mouse-weaning-checklist-149.html