Fostering problems

Alright, so I started fostering some mice a few days ago. They're really sweet, cute and easy to care for. There's only one problem... the smell! I had heard that male mice smell, but I didn't think they'd smell that much.

I live in a small apartment and the only place I can put them that is out of reach of the cats is right in the middle of the apartment. So there is no way for me to get away from the smell.
I have an air filter and I keep the windows open as much as possible but the smell is still there. It's not horrible, but I would be too embarassed to have anyone come over because of it. Also, once it gets too cold to keep the windows open, it'll be way too much.

So I don't think I can keep fostering them for much longer. I feel horrible about it... I feel like I made a commitment to these little mice but I don't see what else I can do. I'm not sure what to tell the shelter either.
I know that male mice are really hard to adopt out (I guess I'm not the only one having issues with the smell) and the shelter is at full capacity right now... and I really don't want to put the mice in a situation where they might be put to sleep.

I feel so selfish.

A catlady fostering MICE!!! Oh, that is a funny picture!

I would try putting the little critters into another container and deep clean the cage. Maybe it is harboring cooties, and once you clean it good it will smell better. Also try different bedding. The cedar chips have a strong smell.

Originally Posted by Beckiboo

A catlady fostering MICE!!!

Oh, that is a funny picture!

I would try putting the little critters into another container and deep clean the cage. Maybe it is harboring cooties, and once you clean it good it will smell better. Also try different bedding. The cedar chips have a strong smell.

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well, I had rats before. And I also have fish. So if I ever forget to feed the cats, they have back-up plans.

I might try different beddings, but the one I am using has always been good with odors (I used it with rats and rabbit before). As far as cleaning the cage goes, it doesn't do much to help the odor. The smell comes from mouse urine, which they use to mark their territory. Right after I clean the cage, they will be sure to mark their territory again and it will smell just as bad. There's really no way to stop them from doing that.

Can they be neutered?

I know they can neuter rats.. but I think Mice are too small.

I also know chips aren't really good for rodents to have for bedding.. there is dust and strong scents that can cause upper respitory infections. a type of paper litter product is best, like CareFresh. Found in most Petstores. Bit more expensive, though.

As for the smell.. I don't know.. I had a male mouse and he didn't smell bad at all.

Good luck!