How do you feed a newborn field mouse? - briefly
Provide a warm, sterile milk replacer—such as diluted goat’s milk or a commercial rodent formula—using a fine‑tipped syringe every 2–3 hours. Maintain the nest at about 30 °C and track weight gain to adjust feeding volume as needed.
How do you feed a newborn field mouse? - in detail
Feeding a neonatal field mouse requires a sterile environment, a nutritionally appropriate milk substitute, and precise timing.
Newborns lack the ability to thermoregulate; maintain ambient temperature at 28‑30 °C using a heating pad set low and covered with a soft cloth. Place the litter in a small, escape‑proof enclosure lined with paper towels that can be changed frequently.
Milk formula
- Use a commercial rodent milk replacer (e.g., “Mouse Milk” or “LabDiet Rodent Milk”).
- If unavailable, mix ultra‑high‑protein kitten formula (minimum 30 % protein) with a few drops of vitamin E oil to mimic the fat content of natural mouse milk.
- Warm the solution to body temperature (37 °C) before each feeding; test with the back of the hand.
Feeding apparatus
- Employ a 1 ml syringe fitted with a 24‑gauge feeding needle or a fine plastic tube.
- Ensure the tip is smooth to avoid trauma to the oral cavity.
Feeding schedule
- Provide 0.1 ml per pup every 2 hours during the first 48 hours.
- Increase volume by 0.05 ml every 24 hours, adjusting for weight gain.
- Continue 8‑10 feedings per day until the young mouse can consume solid food (approximately day 10‑12).
Technique
- Hold the pup gently in a cupped hand, head slightly elevated.
- Insert the needle just inside the corner of the mouth; avoid deep insertion.
- Deliver the measured amount slowly, pausing to allow swallowing.
- Observe for signs of aspiration (coughing, choking) and stop immediately if they occur.
Post‑feeding care
- Stimulate elimination by gently rubbing the genital area with a damp cotton swab.
- Wipe any residual formula from the fur to prevent fungal growth.
- Record weight daily; a healthy neonate should gain 1‑2 g per day.
Transition to solid diet
- Around day 10, introduce a mash of softened rodent chow mixed with a few drops of water.
- Offer the mixture on a shallow dish; monitor consumption and gradually reduce formula volume.
Adhering to these protocols maximizes survival rates and promotes normal growth in captive newborn field mice.