How should you feed a field mouse? - briefly
Offer a diet of natural seeds, grains, nuts, fresh fruits, and occasional insects, and always provide clean water. Avoid processed foods, dairy products, and sugary items.
How should you feed a field mouse? - in detail
A field mouse requires a diet that mimics its natural foraging habits while ensuring nutritional balance and safety in captivity. Provide a mixture of seeds, grains, insects, and fresh vegetation in proportions that reflect seasonal availability in the wild.
- Seeds and grains: Offer small quantities of millet, rolled oats, and sunflower seeds. These should constitute roughly 40 % of the daily intake, broken into several feedings to prevent hoarding.
- Protein sources: Supply live or frozen‑thawed insects such as mealworms, crickets, and small beetles. Aim for 10–15 % of the diet, adjusting for the mouse’s age and reproductive status.
- Fresh greens: Include leaf lettuce, dandelion leaves, and small amounts of carrot or apple peel. These provide vitamins and fiber; limit to 20 % to avoid digestive upset.
- Supplemental items: Provide a calcium source (e.g., crushed eggshell) and a multivitamin powder sparingly, especially during breeding periods.
Water must be fresh, clean, and accessible at all times. Use a shallow bottle with a stainless‑steel nozzle to prevent contamination. Replace the supply daily.
Feeding schedule should consist of two to three sessions per day, spaced evenly. Observe the mouse’s consumption; excess leftovers indicate overfeeding, while frequent scavenging suggests insufficient supply. Adjust portions accordingly.
Safety considerations include:
- Eliminate toxic plants (e.g., foxglove, oleander) and avoid foods high in sugar or fat.
- Ensure all insect prey are free from pesticides.
- Store dry foods in airtight containers to prevent mold growth.
- Monitor weight weekly; a stable weight range of 15–20 g indicates adequate nutrition.
By replicating natural food sources, providing balanced portions, and maintaining hygiene, a field mouse can thrive in a controlled environment.