What do you feed a domestic mouse? - briefly
A pet mouse should receive a diet consisting primarily of high‑quality commercial rodent pellets, complemented by fresh vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli), small fruit pieces (e.g., apple, berries), and occasional protein treats such as boiled egg or mealworms.
What do you feed a domestic mouse? - in detail
A pet mouse requires a balanced diet that supplies protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals in proportions that support rapid growth, high activity levels, and a short digestive tract.
Commercial mouse pellets formulated for laboratory or companion rodents provide a reliable base. Pellets contain a precise blend of soy or casein protein (15‑20 % of the diet), grain‑derived carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, and fortified vitamins and minerals. Feeding ¼ to ½ cup of pellets daily, divided into two portions, maintains steady nutrient intake.
Supplementary fresh foods enrich the diet and encourage natural foraging behavior. Acceptable items include:
- Small pieces of carrot, cucumber, broccoli, or kale (no more than ½ tsp per mouse per day)
- Apple or pear slices, seed‑free, limited to ¼ tsp
- Cooked, unseasoned eggs or plain low‑fat yogurt for additional protein (1 tsp weekly)
- Small amounts of whole‑grain rice or cooked oatmeal (¼ tsp)
All fresh items must be washed, peeled if necessary, and offered in bite‑size portions. Remove uneaten produce within two hours to prevent spoilage.
Foods that pose health risks must be excluded. These include:
- Citrus fruits (acidic, can cause digestive upset)
- Chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine (toxic)
- Sticky or sugary snacks (promote obesity and dental disease)
- Raw beans, raw potatoes, or avocado (contain harmful compounds)
- High‑fat processed foods (lead to hepatic lipidosis)
Water should be available at all times through a sipper bottle with a stainless‑steel tip to avoid contamination. Replace the water daily and clean the bottle weekly.
Monitoring body condition is essential. A healthy mouse exhibits a smooth coat, clear eyes, and a steady weight gain of 1‑2 g per week in juveniles. Adjust portions if the mouse becomes overly thin or gains excessive weight.
Occasional enrichment, such as providing a small amount of whole‑grain cereal or a chew stick, supports dental health and mental stimulation. Use these items sparingly, not exceeding ¼ tsp per week.
In summary, a diet built on high‑quality pellets, modest quantities of fresh vegetables and fruits, occasional protein boosts, and strict avoidance of toxic or high‑fat foods ensures optimal health for a domestic mouse. Regular water provision and weight monitoring complete the care regimen.