What can domestic mice eat? - briefly
Domestic mice thrive on a diet of commercial rodent pellets supplemented with small portions of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and occasional protein sources such as boiled egg or mealworms; all foods must be free of pesticides and processed additives. Toxic items—including chocolate, caffeine, onions, garlic, raw beans, and high‑fat or sugary snacks—should be excluded.
What can domestic mice eat? - in detail
Domestic mice require a balanced diet that supplies carbohydrates, protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Commercially formulated rodent pellets or block diets are the foundation; they are nutritionally complete, low in dust, and free of harmful additives. Offer the pellet portion at every feeding, typically 1–2 teaspoons per mouse per day, adjusting for activity level and age.
Supplement the base diet with fresh foods in limited quantities:
- Fruits: Apple (seedless), banana, berries, melon, pear. Provide no more than a few small pieces daily to avoid excess sugar.
- Vegetables: Carrot, broccoli, spinach, kale, cucumber, peas, sweet potato (cooked, unseasoned). Offer 1–2 tablespoons of mixed vegetables each day.
- Whole grains and seeds: Oats, barley, quinoa, brown rice, millet, sunflower seeds (unsalted). Include a tablespoon or less per feeding; seeds are high‑fat and should remain occasional treats.
- Protein sources: Cooked egg white, plain low‑fat yogurt, boiled chicken breast, mealworms (dry, unsalted). Limit protein treats to 10 % of total intake.
Safe occasional treats include small pieces of cheese, unsweetened cereal, or a pinch of nuts, provided they do not exceed 5 % of the diet. Always remove uneaten fresh food within two hours to prevent spoilage and bacterial growth.
Foods that must never be given:
- Citrus fruits, onions, garlic, raw potatoes, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and any processed human snacks containing salt, sugar, or artificial flavors.
- High‑fat items such as peanut butter, avocado, and fatty meats, which can cause obesity and liver disease.
- Moldy or wilted produce, which carries toxins.
Water should be available at all times in a clean bottle with a metal spout to prevent gnawing. Change the supply daily and disinfect the bottle weekly.
Monitor body condition by feeling the ribs; a slight outline indicates a healthy weight. Adjust portions if the mouse appears underweight or overweight. Regularly rotate fresh foods to provide a variety of nutrients and prevent boredom, while maintaining the core pellet diet for consistency.