How to feed baby mice? - briefly
Provide neonate rodents with a commercial mouse milk replacer using a tiny syringe, delivering 0.1–0.2 ml per feeding every 2–3 hours while maintaining a nest temperature of 29–30 °C. Monitor weight gain and adjust the volume as needed, ensuring the formula is warmed to body temperature before each administration.
How to feed baby mice? - in detail
Feeding newborn mice requires sterile conditions, precise timing, and appropriate nutrition. The mother’s milk is the optimal source; if she is unavailable, a specialized formula must be used.
The first 24 hours after birth demand colostrum or a commercial rodent milk replacer diluted to 1 part formula and 2 parts warm (30‑32 °C) distilled water. Use a syringe with a 0.5 ml capacity, delivering 0.1 ml per feeding for each pup. Feed every 2 hours, alternating sides to simulate natural nursing.
From day 2 to day 7 increase the volume to 0.2 ml per feeding, maintaining the 2‑hour interval. By day 8 the pups can handle 0.3 ml per feed, and the interval may be extended to 3 hours. All feedings should be performed in a clean, low‑light environment to reduce stress.
Key components of the formula:
- 20 % protein (casein or whey isolate)
- 10 % fat (vegetable oil emulsified)
- 5 % carbohydrate (lactose)
- Essential vitamins and minerals (A, D, E, calcium, phosphorus)
Mix the ingredients thoroughly; avoid clumps that could obstruct the syringe needle. Warm the solution to body temperature before each use; do not refrigerate after preparation.
Monitoring:
- Weight gain of at least 2 g per day indicates adequate intake.
- Bright, alert eyes and smooth fur suggest proper nutrition.
- Lethargy, failure to thrive, or diarrhea signal feeding problems and require immediate veterinary consultation.
Weaning begins around day 21. Introduce solid food gradually:
- Offer finely milled rodent chow moistened with water.
- Provide small pieces of soft, protein‑rich foods (e.g., boiled egg white, cooked chicken).
- Reduce formula volume by 10 % each day until the pups consume only solids.
Maintain a clean cage, provide nesting material, and keep ambient temperature at 28‑30 °C until the young rodents are fully independent.