What must not be given to mice? - briefly
Mice must not be fed chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, sugary or salty processed foods, raw onions, garlic, or any medication not prescribed for rodents, because these substances are toxic. Such items can cause organ failure, seizures, or death.
What must not be given to mice? - in detail
Mice require a diet that avoids substances known to cause toxicity, digestive distress, or metabolic disorders. Feeding them inappropriate items can lead to rapid health decline or death.
- Chocolate and cocoa products: contain theobromine, which mice metabolize poorly, resulting in cardiac arrhythmia and seizures.
- Caffeine‑containing beverages or foods: stimulate the central nervous system excessively, causing hyperactivity, tremors, and potentially fatal overdose.
- Alcohol: depresses respiration and impairs liver function; even small quantities are lethal for small rodents.
- Nicotine and tobacco products: act as potent neurotoxins, leading to respiratory failure and convulsions.
- Raw or undercooked beans (especially kidney beans): contain phytohaemagglutinin, a potent hemagglutinin that induces severe gastrointestinal hemorrhage.
- High‑fat, high‑sugar treats (e.g., candy, fried foods): promote obesity, insulin resistance, and hepatic lipidosis.
- Dairy products: many mice lack sufficient lactase, causing diarrhoea and gut dysbiosis.
- Salty snacks or processed meats: excess sodium leads to dehydration, hypertension, and renal damage.
- Citrus peels and acidic fruits: irritate the stomach lining and can cause ulceration.
Non‑food hazards that must never be offered or left within reach include:
- Cleaning agents, bleach, or disinfectants: corrosive chemicals cause burns and systemic toxicity.
- Pesticides, rodenticides, and insecticides: contain anticoagulants or neurotoxins that are fatal on contact or ingestion.
- Heavy‑metal objects (e.g., lead paint chips, solder): accumulate in tissues, impair neurological development.
- Small plastic parts, threads, or wires: present choking or intestinal blockage risks.
- Aromatic oils and scented candles: volatile compounds can damage respiratory epithelium.
Safe feeding practices consist of providing a balanced rodent chow formulated for laboratory or pet mice, supplemented with fresh water, limited amounts of plain vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli) and occasional protein sources such as boiled egg or lean cooked meat. All treats should be introduced gradually, monitored for adverse reactions, and offered in quantities that do not exceed 10 % of total daily intake. Regular health checks ensure that inadvertent exposure to prohibited items is detected early.