How should mice be fed? - briefly
Offer a nutritionally complete rodent chow with constant access to fresh water, supplemented occasionally with small amounts of fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein sources, while avoiding high‑fat or sugary foods. Provide modest portions 2–3 times per day to limit waste and allow health monitoring.
How should mice be fed? - in detail
Mice require a balanced diet that supplies protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals in proportions supporting rapid growth, reproduction, and immune function. Commercial rodent chow formulated for laboratory or pet mice meets these requirements; it should constitute the primary food source. Supplementary items—such as fresh vegetables, fruit, or occasional treats—must be limited to less than 5 % of total intake to avoid nutritional imbalance.
- Protein: 14–20 % of diet, derived from soy, casein, or animal sources. Essential amino acids, especially lysine and methionine, must be present.
- Carbohydrates: 50–60 % of diet, primarily from grains and starches, providing energy for locomotion and thermoregulation.
- Fats: 4–6 % of diet, supplying essential fatty acids (linoleic and α‑linolenic acids) for cell membrane integrity.
- Vitamins and minerals: Adequate levels of vitamin A, D, E, K, B‑complex, calcium, phosphorus, and trace elements (zinc, iron, selenium) prevent deficiencies and support skeletal development.
Feeding frequency depends on age and strain. Neonates (0–21 days) receive milk from the dam; artificial rearing requires a specialized milk replacer administered every 2–3 hours. Weaned juveniles (21–42 days) should have ad libitum access to solid chow, with water available at all times. Adult mice (≥42 days) also receive food and water freely, but monitoring intake helps detect health issues.
Water provision must be continuous, clean, and free of contaminants. Bottles equipped with sipper tubes prevent spillage; stainless steel or glass containers reduce bacterial growth. Replace water daily and sterilize containers weekly.
Environmental factors influence consumption. Ambient temperature between 20 °C and 26 °C, relative humidity of 45–55 %, and a 12‑hour light/dark cycle promote stable intake. Stressors—excessive handling, cage overcrowding, or loud noises—reduce appetite and can lead to weight loss.
Health considerations require regular assessment of body condition. Record body weight weekly; a deviation of more than 10 % from the strain’s baseline warrants dietary adjustment. Observe for signs of malabsorption (diarrhea, coat deterioration) and modify the diet accordingly, possibly incorporating high‑energy formulas for pregnant or lactating females.
Common errors include:
- Providing excessive fresh produce, which dilutes essential nutrients and introduces mold risk.
- Using human food items high in sugar or salt, leading to obesity or renal strain.
- Allowing food to become stale; moisture buildup encourages bacterial growth.
- Neglecting to clean feeding stations, resulting in contamination.
Implementing these guidelines ensures that mice receive the nutrition necessary for optimal physiological performance, reproductive success, and experimental reliability.