What can mice be fed? - briefly
A balanced diet for mice consists of commercially formulated rodent pellets as the staple, complemented by limited fresh produce (e.g., carrots, apples) and occasional protein treats such as boiled egg or mealworms. Avoid sugary, fatty, or processed human foods.
What can mice be fed? - in detail
Mice require a balanced diet that supplies protein, fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals in appropriate proportions. Commercially prepared mouse blocks or pellets are formulated to meet these nutritional standards and should form the core of daily intake. A typical block contains 14–20 % protein, 4–6 % fat, and essential micronutrients, and it eliminates the risk of nutrient deficiencies.
Supplementary fresh foods can enhance variety and provide additional nutrients, but they must be offered in limited quantities to prevent digestive upset. Suitable options include:
- Vegetables: carrots, broccoli, kale, spinach, peas, zucchini. Offer small, bite‑size pieces; remove uneaten portions after a few hours.
- Fruits: apple (seedless), blueberries, strawberries, melon. Provide no more than a teaspoon per mouse per day due to high sugar content.
- Whole grains: oats, cooked brown rice, barley. Serve plain, without added salt or butter.
- Protein sources: boiled egg white, cooked chicken breast, mealworms (live or dried). Limit to one to two teaspoons weekly.
- Treats: small amounts of plain yogurt, low‑fat cheese, or unsweetened shredded wheat. Use sparingly as calorie supplements.
Unsafe items must be excluded entirely. Toxic foods include chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, avocado, raw beans, onions, garlic, citrus peels, and any processed snacks containing salt, sugar, or artificial additives. Moldy or spoiled produce poses a bacterial hazard and should be discarded.
Water is essential; a clean, refillable bottle with a stainless‑steel nozzle prevents contamination. Change the supply daily and sanitize the bottle weekly.
For breeding colonies or laboratory strains, dietary adjustments may be required. Pregnant or lactating females benefit from increased protein (up to 22 %) and calcium, often provided through fortified pellets or calcium‑rich supplements such as crushed eggshells. Juvenile mice need higher energy density; specialized starter feeds are available that contain 22–24 % protein.
Monitoring body condition scores, coat quality, and activity levels helps assess dietary adequacy. Weight loss, hair loss, or reduced activity indicate possible deficiencies or over‑restriction and warrant immediate diet revision.