What do captive mice eat? - briefly
Captive mice are usually provided with a nutritionally complete commercial rodent chow that contains protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Small quantities of fresh vegetables, fruits, or occasional protein treats may be added to increase dietary variety and enrichment.
What do captive mice eat? - in detail
Captive mice receive a formulated diet designed to meet their nutritional requirements for growth, reproduction, and health maintenance. The primary component is a commercially produced rodent chow, typically a pelleted or extruded product containing a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Protein sources derive from soy, casein, or fish meal, providing 14–20 % of the diet, while carbohydrate content ranges from 50–60 % and includes corn, wheat, or barley. Fat contributes 4–6 % and consists of vegetable oils such as soybean or safflower oil. Essential micronutrients—vitamin A, D, E, K, B‑complex, calcium, phosphorus, and trace elements like zinc and selenium—are added in precise concentrations to prevent deficiencies.
Supplementary items may be offered to enrich the diet or address specific experimental needs:
- Fresh produce – small portions of apple, carrot, or leafy greens supply additional fiber and antioxidants.
- Protein treats – boiled egg, cooked chicken, or mealworms provide extra protein for breeding or recovery phases.
- Water – continuously available, filtered or deionized, in a bottle with a stainless‑steel sipper to avoid contamination.
When feeding specialized strains or conducting metabolic studies, researchers may replace standard chow with defined diets where macronutrient ratios are controlled, such as high‑fat or low‑protein formulations. These diets are prepared according to established protocols, ensuring reproducibility across laboratories.
Nutrient intake is monitored by measuring food consumption per cage, recording body weight weekly, and observing coat condition and activity levels. Adjustments to the diet are made promptly if any indicator suggests malnutrition or excessive weight gain.