My cats got hold of a small vole. By the time I found it it was frightened and covered in cat spit. It was easy to pick up and I put it in a mouse cage (no mice in it). We have been feeding it (unsalted peanuts, Wheaties vegetables, and bits of fruit) for a day or two. It does not seem to be eating. We decided to put it out this morning, but it was extremely sluggish and didn't want to move. I suspect it may be dying, but we wonder if it might not be getting ready to hibernate. I also wonder if maybe we are just working against its natural timing, as it is about 9 am, and I think they voles are nocturnal.

Anyway, we are wondering why it is acting this way. We appreciate any help you can give us. Thanks.

It could have had internal injuries. Or it may have just been scared from the attack and the stress of being in a different environment from what it is used to. Releasing it was the appropriate thing to do.