What do mice eat and drink? - briefly
Mice primarily consume seeds, grains, nuts, fruits, and occasional insects, while obtaining fluids from water and the moisture present in their food.
What do mice eat and drink? - in detail
Mice are omnivorous rodents that obtain nutrients from a wide range of solid and liquid sources. Their natural diet includes seeds, grains, nuts, fruits, and insects, providing carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. In laboratory settings, standard chow formulations contain corn‑based meal, soy protein, wheat germ, and added vitamins and minerals to meet precise nutritional requirements.
Typical solid foods consumed by mice:
- Whole grains (wheat, barley, oats)
- Legume seeds (soybeans, peas)
- Nuts and seeds (sunflower, pumpkin)
- Fresh fruits (apple, banana, berries) in limited quantities
- Vegetables (carrots, leafy greens) as supplemental fiber
- Invertebrates (crickets, mealworms) for additional protein
Liquid intake is dominated by water, which mice drink freely when available. Supplemental fluids may include:
- Plain tap or filtered water
- Diluted electrolyte solutions for stress or heat conditions
- Low‑concentration sucrose solutions used in behavioral tests
- Milk substitutes for neonatal pups, such as lactated formula
Mice regulate their consumption based on energy needs, environmental temperature, and reproductive status. During lactation, females increase both solid and liquid intake to support milk production. In captivity, restricting access to high‑fat or high‑sugar items prevents obesity and metabolic disorders. Conversely, offering occasional protein‑rich insects can enhance growth rates in juvenile specimens.
Nutrient balance is critical: excessive carbohydrates can lead to hyperglycemia, while insufficient protein impairs tissue repair. Adequate calcium and phosphorus, supplied by fortified chow, maintain skeletal health. Micronutrients such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and trace minerals are essential for enzymatic functions and immune competence.
Overall, mice adapt their feeding behavior to available resources, but controlled diets in research environments are designed to provide consistent, nutritionally complete profiles that support normal physiology and experimental reliability.