What should a mouse be fed? - briefly
Pet mice need a diet of nutritionally balanced mouse pellets complemented by limited fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional protein sources such as boiled egg or mealworms. Provide constant access to clean water and avoid sugary or fatty treats.
What should a mouse be fed? - in detail
Mice require a balanced diet that supplies protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals in proportions that support rapid growth, reproduction, and immune function. Commercially prepared rodent pellets are formulated to meet these nutritional needs and should form the core of daily intake. Pellets provide consistent protein levels (typically 14‑20 % for adult mice, 20‑24 % for juveniles), adequate energy from grain‑based carbohydrates, and essential micronutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D.
Supplementary foods can enhance variety and enrich enrichment but must be offered in limited quantities to avoid nutritional imbalances. Acceptable additions include:
- Fresh vegetables: carrots, broccoli, cucumber, and leafy greens (wash thoroughly, remove any wilted parts).
- Fresh fruits: apple slices, banana, berries (remove seeds and pits; limit to 5 % of total diet because of sugar content).
- Protein treats: boiled egg white, cooked chicken breast, mealworms (no more than 2 % of daily intake).
- Whole grains: oats, barley, quinoa (small portions, uncooked).
Items to exclude are toxic or high‑fat foods: chocolate, caffeine, avocado, raw beans, citrus peels, and processed snacks containing salt or sugar. These can cause acute toxicity or long‑term health issues such as obesity and liver disease.
Water must be continuously available, clean, and refreshed daily. Bottles with stainless‑steel or plastic sipper tubes are preferred over open dishes to reduce contamination.
Feeding schedule should align with the mouse’s nocturnal activity. Provide food at the start of the dark phase and monitor consumption. Adjust portions based on body condition: a healthy adult mouse typically weighs 20‑30 g and consumes 3‑5 g of dry food per day. Regular weight checks help detect under‑ or over‑feeding early.
For breeding colonies, pregnant and lactating females require increased protein (up to 24 % in the diet) and additional calories. Provide extra nesting material and consider supplementing with high‑energy treats such as soy‑based formula or specialized lactation pellets.
Overall, a diet centered on high‑quality rodent pellets, complemented by measured fresh produce and protein sources, while avoiding harmful foods and ensuring constant water access, meets the comprehensive nutritional requirements of a mouse.