What can you supplement a mouse's diet with? - briefly
Fresh vegetables such as carrots or broccoli, protein sources like mealworms or boiled egg, and commercially prepared fortified grain blends are appropriate supplements. Introduce each new item in small quantities to monitor tolerance.
What can you supplement a mouse's diet with? - in detail
Mice require a balanced intake of protein, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals. When the standard laboratory or pet chow does not meet specific physiological or experimental needs, targeted additions can improve health, reproduction or experimental outcomes.
Protein sources such as boiled egg white, cooked chicken breast, or low‑fat cottage cheese provide essential amino acids. Each supplement should not exceed 5 % of total daily intake to avoid excess nitrogen load.
Fiber can be increased with small quantities of rolled oats, wheat bran or psyllium husk. Adding 1–2 grams per kilogram of feed supports gastrointestinal motility and prevents cecal bloating.
Vitamins and minerals are commonly supplied through fortified powders or tablets. Essential micronutrients include:
- Vitamin A – 2 000 IU kg⁻¹; prevents keratinization disorders.
- Vitamin D₃ – 400 IU kg⁻¹; supports calcium metabolism.
- Vitamin E – 50 IU kg⁻¹; antioxidant protection.
- B‑complex – balanced mix; aids energy metabolism.
- Calcium carbonate – 0.5 % of diet; maintains bone density.
- Magnesium sulfate – 0.2 % of diet; prevents neuromuscular tremors.
- Zinc gluconate – 50 ppm; essential for immune function.
Probiotic cultures (e.g., Lactobacillus spp.) can be mixed into water or sprinkled on feed at 10⁸ CFU g⁻¹. Consistent administration for at least 7 days stabilizes gut flora and reduces pathogen colonisation.
Fresh produce offers natural vitamins and antioxidants. Suitable options, provided in limited amounts to prevent diarrhea, include:
- Apple slices (no seeds) – 0.5 g per mouse daily.
- Carrot shavings – 0.2 g per mouse daily.
- Blueberries – 0.1 g per mouse daily.
Invertebrate protein may be offered to breeding colonies or for enrichment. Mealworms, crickets or dried insects should be sterilised and limited to 5 % of total calories.
Commercial mouse supplements are available in gel or pellet form, formulated to deliver balanced micronutrients without altering macronutrient ratios. When using such products, follow manufacturer dosage recommendations and monitor body weight.
Safety considerations:
- Avoid toxic foods: chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, avocado, citrus peels, onions, garlic and high‑fat processed snacks.
- Introduce new items gradually, observing for adverse reactions.
- Store supplements in airtight containers at 4 °C to preserve potency.
Regular assessment of body condition, coat quality and fecal consistency guides adjustment of supplemental amounts. Properly administered additions enhance welfare and experimental reliability without compromising the core nutritional profile of the base diet.