What do cats eat from mice? - briefly
Cats consume the flesh, organs, and bones of mice, extracting protein, fat, and essential nutrients necessary for their diet.
What do cats eat from mice? - in detail
Cats typically ingest the entire mouse, but the nutritional value varies among its components. Muscle tissue provides high‑quality protein and essential amino acids. Organ meats—liver, heart, kidneys, and lungs—supply vitamins (A, B‑complex) and minerals (iron, zinc, selenium). The brain and spinal cord contain fatty acids and cholesterol that support coat health and hormone synthesis. Bone fragments, especially from the skull and rib cage, deliver calcium and phosphorus, though excessive bone can cause dental wear.
Key nutrients per 100 g of mouse tissue:
- Skeletal muscle: ~20 g protein, ~5 g fat
- Liver: vitamin A ≈ 5 000 IU, iron ≈ 3 mg
- Heart: taurine ≈ 150 mg, B‑vitamins
- Kidneys: vitamin B12 ≈ 15 µg, selenium
- Bone: calcium ≈ 800 mg, phosphorus ≈ 600 mg
Digestive considerations: feline enzymes efficiently break down animal protein, while the acidic stomach neutralizes most bacterial load. Bone is softened by gastric acids, allowing safe passage in moderate amounts. Excessive bone or fur may cause gastrointestinal obstruction; therefore, natural chewing behavior that removes fur and reduces bone size is advantageous.
In summary, a cat derives protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids from the mouse’s muscle, organs, and skeletal elements. The combination satisfies the obligate carnivore’s dietary requirements when prey is consumed whole.