What field mice eat in domestic conditions

Understanding the Natural Diet of Field Mice

Primary Food Sources in the Wild

Grains and Seeds

Field mice kept indoors rely heavily on grains and seeds as primary energy sources. These items provide carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and essential micronutrients required for growth, reproduction, and activity.

Commonly offered grains include:

Wheat kernels
Oats (rolled or whole)
Barley
Rye
Corn kernels

Typical seeds favored by domestic field mice are:

Sunflower seeds (hulled)
Millet
Flaxseed
Sesame seeds
Pumpkin seeds (shelled)

Nutritional considerations:

Carbohydrate content in wheat, oats, and barley supplies rapid energy.
Protein levels in barley and millet support tissue repair.
Fatty acids in sunflower and flaxseed contribute to coat health and metabolic function.
Fiber in whole grains aids digestion and prevents gastrointestinal blockage.

Feeding guidelines:

Provide a daily portion of 1–2 grams of mixed grains and seeds per 20 g of mouse body weight.
Offer fresh, dry material; avoid moldy or stale supplies.
Store bulk quantities in airtight containers at low humidity to preserve quality.
Rotate seed varieties weekly to prevent nutrient deficiencies and reduce the risk of selective overconsumption.

Safety notes:

Remove shells from seeds that could cause dental wear or choking.
Exclude cereals treated with pesticides or artificial preservatives.
Monitor for signs of obesity or weight loss; adjust portions accordingly.

Insects and Larvae

Field mice kept indoors frequently turn to arthropods as a protein source. Common insects encountered in homes include houseflies (Musca domestica), pantry beetles (Stegobium paniceum), carpet beetles (Attagenus spp.), and moth larvae (Tineola bisselliella). These prey items are readily available in grain stores, kitchen waste, and damp corners where mice forage.

Housefly adults provide soft tissue and exoskeleton chitin, supporting growth and reproduction.
Pantry beetle larvae offer high lipid content, useful during molting periods.
Carpet beetle larvae contain essential amino acids and micronutrients such as iron and zinc.
Moth larvae (clothes moths) supply carbohydrates from stored fabrics and keratin from hair or feathers.

Larval forms such as mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) and waxworms (Galleria mellonella) are occasionally introduced by owners as supplemental feed. Their high protein and fat ratios enhance weight gain and fur condition. However, excessive reliance on insects can lead to imbalanced diets; supplemental grains and seeds remain necessary for carbohydrate intake.

Potential hazards include pesticide residues on captured insects and the risk of parasitic nematodes transmitted through larvae. Monitoring for chemical exposure and rotating food sources mitigate these concerns. Regular observation of mouse body condition and fecal analysis confirms that insect consumption meets nutritional requirements without adverse effects.

Fruits and Berries

Field mice kept in homes readily accept a variety of fruits and berries when offered as supplemental food. These items provide simple carbohydrates, natural sugars, vitamins, and antioxidants that complement the protein and grain base of a typical captive diet.

Commonly accepted fruits include apple slices, banana chunks, grapes, and melon cubes. Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackcurrants are also well‑received. When selecting produce, choose fresh, ripe specimens free of mold or pesticide residues. Wash thoroughly and remove any seeds that could pose choking hazards, especially from apples and cherries.

Benefits of fruit and berry supplementation:

Rapid energy source for active periods
Vitamin C and other micronutrients supporting immune function
Fiber contributing to gastrointestinal health

Potential drawbacks:

High sugar content may lead to obesity if overfed
Certain fruits contain compounds toxic to rodents (e.g., citrus peels, avocado flesh)
Fermentation of moist fruit can cause digestive upset

Feeding guidelines:

Offer no more than 10‑15 % of the total daily intake by weight.
Present in small, bite‑size pieces to limit waste.
Remove uneaten portions after 2‑3 hours to prevent spoilage.
Rotate varieties weekly to provide a balanced spectrum of nutrients.

Proper storage extends freshness: keep cut fruit in sealed containers in the refrigerator, and discard any pieces that become soft or develop an off‑odor. Providing occasional fruit and berry treats enhances the nutritional profile of domesticated field mice while maintaining a diet that mirrors their natural foraging behavior.

Fungi and Roots

Field mice kept indoors often supplement their diet with fungal material and plant roots, which provide essential proteins, carbohydrates, and micronutrients absent from grain‑based feeds.

Fungi contribute chitin‑rich cell walls, B‑vitamins, and trace minerals. Mice readily consume soft‑bodied mushrooms, mycelial mats, and sporulating fruiting bodies when these items are accessible in storage areas or garden debris brought indoors.

Commonly eaten fungi:
1. White button (Agaricus bisporus) caps that have softened after moisture exposure.
2. Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) with tender flesh.
3. Wild yeasts and mold colonies on damp bread or fruit.

Plant roots offer soluble sugars, dietary fiber, and electrolytes. Mice gnaw on tender taproots and fibrous secondary roots that penetrate soil in potted plants or compost piles located near their nesting sites.

Typical root sources:
1. Carrot and radish taproots that have softened after watering.
2. Dandelion and chicory taproots found in garden pots.
3. Sweet potato and beet fibrous roots introduced through kitchen waste.

When providing these foods, ensure they are free from pesticides, mold toxins, or poisonous species. Fresh, clean specimens should be offered in limited quantities to prevent digestive upset. Monitoring consumption patterns helps identify preferences and avoid overreliance on any single source, maintaining a balanced nutritional profile for indoor field mice.

Adapting to a Domestic Environment

Common Household Food Items

Cereal Grains and Oats

Cereal grains constitute a readily available energy source for field mice kept indoors. The grains are high in carbohydrates, which support rapid metabolism and sustain activity levels. Typical household supplies—such as wheat, barley, and corn—are often consumed without conditioning, providing a convenient supplement to the rodents’ natural diet.

Oats are especially attractive due to their soft texture and balanced nutrient profile. They contain soluble fiber, moderate protein, and a modest fat content, all of which contribute to digestive health and growth. Field mice readily gnaw on rolled or whole oat kernels, and the mild sweetness encourages frequent feeding. When stored in dry conditions, oats retain palatability for extended periods, reducing the risk of spoilage that might deter consumption.

Offer small measured portions (1–2 g per mouse) to prevent overconsumption and obesity.
Keep grains in sealed containers to maintain freshness and limit exposure to pests.
Rotate grain types weekly to avoid monotony and ensure a varied nutrient intake.
Monitor weight and behavior; sudden changes may indicate nutritional imbalance or health issues.

Nuts and Seeds

Field mice kept in domestic environments frequently consume nuts and seeds as a primary energy source. These items provide high‑calorie content, essential fatty acids, and protein that support rapid growth and reproductive cycles.

Common nuts offered to indoor field mice include:

Sunflower kernels – rich in vitamin E and linoleic acid.
Peanuts (unsalted, unroasted) – dense protein and monounsaturated fats.
Almond fragments – source of calcium and magnesium.
Hazelnut pieces – supply vitamin B‑complex and antioxidants.

Seeds are equally important in the captive diet. Typical choices are:

Millet – high carbohydrate level, easy to digest.
Flaxseed – contains omega‑3 fatty acids and lignans.
Sesame – offers calcium, iron, and zinc.
Chia – provides fiber and polyunsaturated fats.

When integrating nuts and seeds, balance is critical. Over‑reliance on fatty nuts may lead to obesity, while excessive seed consumption can cause digestive disturbances. A mixed ration of 10–15 % nuts and 5–10 % seeds, combined with a basal grain or pellet diet, yields stable body condition and vigorous activity in domestic field mice.

Fruits and Vegetables

Field mice kept indoors frequently consume fresh produce, choosing items that are easy to gnaw and nutritionally rich. Their preference for sweet and soft textures leads them to select specific fruits and vegetables that are readily available in households.

Apples (especially peeled slices)
Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries
Grapes (cut into small pieces)
Bananas (softened by ripening)
Pears (peeled, sliced)

Vegetables favored by indoor field mice include:

Carrots, cut into thin sticks
Cucumbers, sliced into bite‑size chunks
Leafy greens like lettuce and spinach, torn into small sections
Bell peppers, diced
Zucchini, sliced thinly

Mice are attracted to fresh, moist produce; items that begin to soften or show signs of overripeness become especially appealing. Storing fruits and vegetables in sealed containers or refrigeration limits access and reduces the likelihood of consumption. However, occasional exposure to these foods can provide essential vitamins and minerals that supplement the rodents’ standard grain‑based diet.

Pet Food (Dry Kibble)

Field mice kept as indoor pets require a diet that supplies protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals in proportions that support rapid growth and high metabolic rates. Dry kibble formulated for small rodents meets these requirements by delivering balanced nutrition in a stable, low‑moisture format that resists spoilage.

Key components of a suitable kibble blend include:

High‑quality animal or plant protein (e.g., soy, whey, insect meal) at 15‑20 % of the formula;
Complex carbohydrates from grains or legumes, providing 45‑55 % of the mix;
Essential fatty acids from seed oils or fish oil, comprising 3‑5 % of the product;
Vitamin and mineral premix covering calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, D, E, and B‑complex;
Fiber sources such as oat bran or beet pulp to aid digestion.

Recommended feeding practice:

Offer 1–2 g of kibble per 10 g of body weight daily, divided into two equal portions;
Monitor body condition and adjust quantity to prevent obesity or weight loss;
Provide fresh water alongside kibble to prevent dehydration;
Replace uneaten kibble after 24 hours to maintain hygiene;
Supplement occasional fresh greens or seeds for enrichment, but keep total caloric intake within the calculated range.

Foods to Avoid

Human Processed Foods

Field mice kept in homes frequently encounter foods intended for human consumption. Their natural foraging instincts drive them toward items that are easily accessible, soft in texture, and rich in carbohydrates or fats. Processed products provide these characteristics, making them attractive to the rodents.

Common human‑derived processed foods found in domestic environments include:

Bread and rolls, especially those with added sugars or butter.
Crackers, chips, and pretzels, which offer high salt and fat content.
Breakfast cereals, particularly those with sweet coatings or dried fruit.
Cooked pasta or rice, often left uncovered after meals.
Processed meats such as deli slices, sausages, or bacon fragments.
Snack cakes, pastries, and doughnuts, which combine sugars and fats.

Nutritional implications are notable. Processed items typically contain elevated levels of simple sugars, refined starches, and sodium, while lacking essential fibers, vitamins, and minerals required for rodent health. Regular consumption can lead to obesity, dental disease, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Moreover, additives such as preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and flavor enhancers may cause toxicity at high exposure levels.

Behavioral observations indicate that field mice quickly learn to associate human activity with food availability. They may exploit gaps in storage containers, scavenge leftovers from countertops, or gnaw through packaging to reach high‑calorie snacks. Their preference for soft, aromatic foods often outweighs the appeal of natural seeds or grains when both are present.

For owners seeking to limit rodent attraction, the following measures are effective:

Store all processed foods in sealed, rodent‑proof containers.
Clean surfaces promptly after meals to remove crumbs.
Dispose of food waste in containers with tight-fitting lids.
Reduce the presence of pet food that has been left uncovered.
Inspect and repair structural gaps that allow rodent entry.

Implementing these practices reduces the likelihood that field mice will incorporate human processed foods into their diet, thereby supporting healthier weight management and lower risk of disease.

Dairy Products

Field mice in homes frequently encounter dairy items left unattended on countertops, in pantry shelves, or within pet food containers. Their small size and high metabolic rate make them attracted to the high‑energy content of milk, cheese, yogurt, and butter.

Milk: Fresh or slightly sour milk provides lactose and fat, which mice can digest efficiently when lactase activity remains sufficient. Stale milk loses appeal due to bacterial growth and off‑flavors.
Cheese: Soft varieties such as cottage cheese, mozzarella, or cream cheese contain moisture and protein that encourage nibbling. Hard cheeses are less attractive because of low moisture and stronger odors that may deter rodents.
Yogurt: Plain, low‑fat yogurt supplies probiotic cultures and whey protein. Flavored yogurts with added sugars can be consumed, but the sweetness may increase the risk of dental caries in mice.
Butter and margarine: High‑fat spreads are consumed in small amounts; excess intake can lead to rapid weight gain and hepatic fat accumulation.

Nutritional benefits of dairy for field mice include rapid energy provision, calcium for bone development, and essential amino acids. However, excessive dairy intake can cause gastrointestinal distress, particularly when lactose intolerance develops after weaning. High‑fat dairy products may predispose mice to obesity and related metabolic disorders.

Safety considerations for household owners: store dairy in sealed containers, clean spills promptly, and avoid leaving open dishes overnight. If dairy is used as bait in pest‑control programs, limit quantities to prevent overconsumption and ensure that the bait does not attract non‑target species.

In summary, dairy products represent a readily available, energy‑dense food source for domestic field mice, but balanced exposure is necessary to avoid health complications and to minimize infestation risk.

Toxic Plants

Field mice kept indoors frequently encounter ornamental and garden plants that contain compounds lethal to rodents. Consumption of such vegetation can produce rapid physiological decline, compromising the health of the animal and the safety of the household.

Aconitum spp. (monkshood, wolfsbane) – contains aconitine, a potent neurotoxin that induces cardiac arrest and respiratory failure.
Digitalis purpurea (foxglove) – cardiac glycosides cause arrhythmias and sudden death.
Rhododendron spp. (azaleas, rhododendrons) – grayanotoxins disrupt sodium channels, leading to vomiting, weakness, and seizures.
Nerium oleander (oleander) – oleandrin interferes with cardiac muscle contraction, producing fatal arrhythmias.
Lilium spp. (lilies) – unknown toxins produce acute renal failure in rodents.
Euphorbia spp. (spurge) – diterpene esters irritate gastrointestinal mucosa, causing hemorrhage and shock.
Ricinus communis (castor bean) – ricin impairs protein synthesis, resulting in multi‑organ failure.

Signs of toxicity include loss of appetite, lethargy, tremors, seizures, uncontrolled drooling, and abnormal respiration. Mortality can occur within hours of ingestion, depending on the plant and dosage.

Immediate intervention requires removal of the plant material, supportive care such as fluid therapy, and, when available, administration of specific antitoxins or activated charcoal. Veterinary consultation is essential to confirm diagnosis and guide treatment.

Preventive measures consist of eliminating all known poisonous species from the mouse’s enclosure, inspecting newly introduced foliage, and storing plant material out of reach. Regular monitoring of the environment reduces accidental exposure and safeguards the animal’s well‑being.

Sugary and Fatty Snacks

Field mice that enter homes are attracted to high‑energy foods, especially those rich in sugars and fats. Their natural foraging behavior drives them toward easily accessible items such as candy, chocolate, pastries, and processed snacks. These foods provide rapid calories but lack the nutrients required for proper rodent physiology.

Preference drivers: Sweet taste receptors and the high caloric density of fats stimulate quick intake. Mice often discover sugary crumbs on countertops or fatty residues on kitchen surfaces.
Health consequences: Excessive consumption can lead to obesity, liver steatosis, and dental decay. Short‑term effects include hyperglycemia and reduced activity levels.
Behavioral impact: Access to calorie‑dense treats reduces the need for natural foraging, causing mice to become more sedentary and less wary of human presence, which increases the likelihood of infestations.
Control measures: Seal food containers, clean spills promptly, and store sugary or fatty items in airtight containers. Regular inspection of pantry edges and waste bins helps eliminate attractants.

Understanding the appeal of sweet and fatty snacks enables effective management of field mouse presence in residential environments.

Nutritional Needs and Dietary Balance

Essential Nutrients

Proteins

Field mice kept indoors require adequate protein to support growth, tissue repair, and reproductive functions. Commercial rodent pellets typically contain 14–20 % protein, formulated from soy, wheat gluten, and animal-derived meals. When supplementing a domestic diet, consider the following protein sources:

Soybean meal – high‑quality plant protein, digestible, low in fat.
Wheat gluten – concentrated protein, suitable for mixing with grains.
Egg powder – complete amino‑acid profile, enhances palatability.
Fish meal – rich in essential amino acids and omega‑3 fatty acids.
Insect larvae – emerging alternative, provides chitin‑bound protein.

Protein levels below 12 % may lead to stunted growth and reduced litter size, while excess protein (>25 %) can strain renal function. Balance protein intake with carbohydrates and fiber to maintain gut health and prevent obesity. Regular monitoring of body condition and adjusting portion sizes ensures optimal nutritional status for indoor field mice.

Carbohydrates

Field mice kept indoors obtain most of their carbohydrate intake from readily available human food items and commercial rodent feeds. Simple sugars, starches, and fiber serve as primary energy sources, supporting rapid metabolism and activity levels.

Typical carbohydrate sources include:

Commercial mouse pellets containing milled grains such as wheat, corn, and barley.
Fresh fruits: apple slices, banana pieces, and berries, each providing natural sugars and soluble fiber.
Vegetables: carrots, peas, and sweet potatoes, offering starches and complex carbohydrates.
Whole‑grain cereals: rolled oats or small amounts of unsweetened cornflakes, supplying slow‑release energy.
Bread crumbs or plain crackers, limited to avoid excessive refined starch.

Balanced carbohydrate provision follows these principles:

Energy proportion – Carbohydrates should represent roughly 45‑55 % of total caloric intake for healthy growth and maintenance.
Digestibility – Prefer complex carbohydrates with fiber to promote gut motility and prevent diarrhea.
Safety – Exclude sugary treats with artificial sweeteners, high‑fructose corn syrup, or added salts, which can cause metabolic disturbances.
Variety – Rotate fruit and vegetable offerings to supply a range of monosaccharides and polysaccharides, reducing the risk of nutrient deficiencies.

Overreliance on refined grains or sugary snacks can lead to weight gain, dental decay, and altered blood glucose regulation. Monitoring portion size—no more than a teaspoon of fresh fruit or a pinch of grain‑based treats per day—maintains nutritional balance without excess calories.

In practice, a daily diet consisting of a measured amount of quality mouse pellets supplemented with two to three small portions of fresh produce satisfies carbohydrate requirements while supporting overall health in a domestic setting.

Fats

Field mice kept in a household environment obtain dietary lipids from a limited range of sources. Fats supply the high caloric density required for rapid metabolism and facilitate the absorption of fat‑soluble vitamins.

Typical fat contributors include:

Commercial rodent pellets containing added vegetable oil or animal fat.
Small pieces of cooked meat, poultry, or fish without seasoning.
Unsalted nuts such as peanuts or almonds, broken into bite‑size fragments.
Seeds (sunflower, pumpkin) with intact oil content.
Plain dairy products (low‑fat cheese or yogurt) offered in minimal quantities.

Recommended inclusion levels range from 5 % to 10 % of total caloric intake. Excessive fat can lead to obesity and hepatic lipidosis; therefore, monitor body condition and adjust portions accordingly. Freshness is critical—oxidized oils and rancid nuts reduce palatability and may cause gastrointestinal irritation. Store all fat sources in airtight containers, replace them regularly, and discard any that develop off‑odors.

When formulating a domestic diet, combine a baseline of balanced rodent chow with the listed fat items to achieve a complete nutrient profile while maintaining the energy density essential for field mice.

Vitamins and Minerals

Field mice kept indoors require a balanced supply of vitamins and minerals to maintain health, support growth, and prevent metabolic disorders. Their natural foraging behavior provides a variety of micronutrients, but a controlled environment often necessitates supplementation through formulated feeds or targeted additions.

Key vitamins for captive field mice include:

Vitamin A – essential for vision and epithelial integrity; supplied by carrots, sweet potatoes, and fortified grain mixes.
Vitamin D3 – regulates calcium absorption; achievable through exposure to UV‑B light or inclusion of fish oil and fortified pellets.
Vitamin E – antioxidant protecting cell membranes; present in wheat germ and sunflower seeds.
Vitamin K – involved in blood clotting; found in leafy greens such as kale and spinach.
B‑complex (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12) – support energy metabolism and nervous function; abundant in whole grains, legumes, and liver.
Vitamin C – not strictly required in rodents but beneficial for stress response; offered via fresh citrus peel or fortified supplements.

Critical minerals comprise:

Calcium and phosphorus – maintain bone structure; balanced ratio (≈1.2:1) achieved with powdered milk, bone meal, or calcium carbonate supplements.
Magnesium – co‑factor for enzymatic reactions; supplied by nuts, seeds, and magnesium‑rich mineral blocks.
Potassium and sodium – regulate fluid balance; incorporated through low‑salt vegetable matter and occasional mineral salt licks.
Iron – required for hemoglobin synthesis; provided by cooked beans, lentils, and iron‑fortified feeds.
Zinc, copper, selenium – trace elements influencing immunity and antioxidant systems; delivered via commercial rodent mixes or precise mineral powders.

Adequate provision of these micronutrients prevents common deficiencies: night blindness (vitamin A), rickets (vitamin D or calcium), anemia (iron or B12), and impaired wound healing (vitamin C, zinc). Monitoring body condition, coat quality, and activity levels offers practical indicators of nutritional status. Adjustments should follow veterinary guidance, especially when introducing concentrated supplements to avoid hypervitaminosis or mineral toxicity.

Ensuring a Balanced Diet

Variety of Food Sources

Field mice kept indoors adapt to a broad spectrum of edible items provided by their caretakers. Their digestive systems handle both plant and animal matter, allowing owners to supply a balanced diet without reliance on a single source.

Typical food categories include:

Grains and seeds – wheat, oats, barley, millet, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn deliver carbohydrates and essential fatty acids.
Fresh produce – apple slices, carrots, peas, broccoli, and leafy greens contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Protein supplements – boiled egg white, cooked lean meat, mealworms, or commercially prepared insect larvae supply amino acids necessary for growth and reproduction.
Commercial rodent feeds – pelleted or extruded formulations designed for laboratory or pet rodents combine the above nutrients in calibrated ratios, ensuring consistency.
Occasional treats – small portions of cheese, yogurt, or unsalted nuts can diversify the palate but should remain limited to prevent digestive upset.

Owners should rotate items within each category to prevent monotony and to expose mice to a range of micronutrients. Water must be available at all times, preferably in a bottle with a sipper tube to maintain cleanliness. By offering a varied selection, caretakers support optimal health, natural foraging behavior, and reduced risk of nutritional deficiencies.

Supplementation (if necessary)

Field mice kept indoors frequently miss dietary components that are abundant in natural habitats. Wild foraging supplies a varied mix of seeds, insects, and plant material, providing balanced protein, minerals, and vitamins; captive diets often rely on commercial rodent pellets and occasional fresh produce, which may leave gaps.

Key nutrients that commonly require supplementation include:

Protein: supplemental dried insects (e.g., mealworms, crickets) or high‑quality soy/egg‑based powders.
Calcium: powdered calcium carbonate or bone meal, especially for breeding females and growing juveniles.
Vitamin D3: liquid drops or fortified feed to compensate for limited ultraviolet exposure.
B‑complex vitamins: water‑soluble blends that support metabolism and nervous function.
Essential fatty acids: omega‑3 rich oils (e.g., flaxseed or fish oil) to maintain skin and coat health.

Supplementation should be introduced only after evaluating the existing diet. A practical approach is to compare the nutrient profile of the current feed with established requirements for small rodents and add the deficient items in measured amounts. For example, a daily calcium addition of 0.05 g per 30 g body weight, or a vitamin D3 dose of 400 IU per 10 g of feed, aligns with veterinary guidelines.

Regular monitoring involves observing body condition, coat quality, and stool consistency, and conducting periodic weight checks. Adjustments are made if signs of over‑supplementation appear, such as excessive calcium leading to urinary tract deposits or hypervitaminosis D causing lethargy.

Caution is essential: excessive calcium can precipitate kidney stones; high vitamin D levels may induce hypercalcemia; too much oil can cause diarrhea. Always use products formulated for small rodents and follow manufacturer dosage recommendations.

Access to Water

Field mice kept in homes require reliable water sources to maintain physiological functions. Dehydration reduces activity, impairs thermoregulation, and accelerates mortality; therefore, a constant supply of clean liquid is essential.

Suitable water provision methods include:

Small, shallow dishes made of stainless steel or glass to prevent rust and contamination.
Water bottles with sipper tubes that limit spillage and reduce bacterial growth.
Moisture‑rich foods such as fresh vegetables, which supplement drinking water but should not replace a dedicated water source.

Regular maintenance is critical. Replace water daily, clean containers with mild detergent, and rinse thoroughly to eliminate biofilm. Monitor for signs of excess moisture, such as mold or condensation, which can foster pathogens.

In environments where tap water contains chlorine or heavy metals, use filtered or bottled water to avoid toxic exposure. Provide water at a height accessible to the mouse but low enough to prevent falls from the cage.

Ensuring uninterrupted access to safe water supports digestion, kidney function, and overall health of field mice in domestic settings.