A mouse's average lifespan varies greatly depending on whether it is a wild house mouse, a pet fancy mouse, or a laboratory mouse, and on predation and environment. In the wild, house mice live very short lives, typically only about five to twelve months on average, because they face many threats including predators like cats, owls, snakes, lack of food, harsh weather, disease, and human pest control. Few wild mice survive to one year. Pet mice that live in protected conditions with regular food, clean bedding, veterinary care, and no predators live much longer, on average one and a half to three years, with two years being typical. Some well-cared-for pet mice have lived up to three and a half or four years, but that is uncommon. Laboratory mice bred for research have similar lifespans to pet mice, around two to three years depending on strain. Factors that affect lifespan include genetics, diet, exercise, stress, hygiene, and whether the mouse is housed alone or with companions. Female mice sometimes live slightly longer than males. Compared to other rodents, mice are relatively short-lived, much shorter than rats which can live two to three and a half years, or hamsters two to three years, which is why potential pet owners should be prepared for a short commitment.
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