Frozen Rodent Handling/Safety

Frozen mice and frozen rats have been produced as a staple feeder for reptiles, birds of prey and mammals for well over 50 years.  Like most common meat items, frozen meat can be susceptible to the development of bacteria if not handled properly.  This guide will assist you in the handling of frozen meat prey products and ensure you are providing the freshest nutrition for your pet.

According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, handling of frozen mice and frozen rats is not recommnded for children under 5 years of age, adults over 65, pregnant women and people with compromised immune systems.  These individuals are at greater risk of serious illness from germs that can potentially be carried by the animal.  

It is recommended that frozen rodents not be handled without appropriate personal protective equipment such as latex gloves or tongs.  No frozen rodent should be placed around the face, nose, eyes, or within the mouth of any individual.

Children should be supervised at all times when dealing with prepared or frozen rodents for feeding pets.

All frozen rodents and prey items should be maintained in a frozen state until being thawed for use.  It is recommended to not refreeze frozen rodents as this may spoil the rodent and may be detrimental to your pets health.

Great care is taken to ensure that all rodent droppings, bedding, etc. are not attached to the rodents you receive.  In the event that any of these items are attached to your shipment, discard the loose items in an appropriate disposal container.

Frozen meat items are capable of harboring germs that are not eliminated through the freezing process.  It is important that you do not prepare frozen prey items where human food is prepared.  Do not use kitchen sinks, kitchen counter tops, microwaves, etc.  Individuals should not eat or drink while handling frozen rodents or while preparing frozen rodents to feed.

All preparation surfaces, feeding instruments and containers should be sanitized by washing in a 10% bleach solution or equivalent.

Be sure to thoroughly wash your hands after handling frozen rodents.

For thawing and feeding instructions, see our Thawing Frozen Rodent Guide here.