What should baby mice be fed? - briefly
Baby mice need a high‑protein, low‑fat milk replacer specifically formulated for rodent neonates, administered every 2–3 hours. Once they can handle solid food, offer soft, protein‑rich supplements such as finely minced insects or commercial mouse formula.
What should baby mice be fed? - in detail
Neonatal rodents require a diet that mirrors the composition of natural mother’s milk until they can process solid food. The first few days after birth depend entirely on a specially prepared milk replacer, because the pups lack the ability to ingest solid particles and their digestive enzymes are immature.
The milk substitute should contain:
- Protein: 30‑35 % of calories, primarily whey‑derived, to support rapid tissue growth.
- Fat: 45‑55 % of calories, sourced from vegetable oils rich in essential fatty acids (linoleic and arachidonic acids).
- Carbohydrate: 10‑15 % of calories, usually lactose or a lactose‑free alternative for pups with intolerance.
- Vitamins and minerals: adequate levels of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and B‑complex vitamins to prevent metabolic bone disease and support neural development.
- Osmolality: 300‑350 mOsm/kg to avoid gastrointestinal distress.
Feeding schedule for the first week:
- 0‑3 days: 0.1 ml per pup per feeding, administered every 2 hours, including overnight. Use a calibrated syringe with a 23‑gauge feeding needle.
- 4‑7 days: Increase volume to 0.2‑0.3 ml per pup, maintain 2‑hour intervals, monitor weight gain of at least 2 g per day.
From the second week onward, introduce semi‑solid foods while continuing milk replacer:
- Day 8‑10: Offer a mixture of milk replacer and finely ground dry kibble (1:1) at 0.5 ml per pup, three times daily.
- Day 11‑14: Gradually shift to 75 % kibble, 25 % liquid, reducing total liquid volume to 0.3 ml. By day 14, pups should be capable of consuming dry food independently.
Critical handling practices:
- Warm the formula to 37 °C; avoid overheating, which denatures proteins.
- Sterilize all feeding equipment before each use to prevent bacterial contamination.
- Observe each pup for signs of aspiration (coughing, labored breathing) and adjust needle angle accordingly.
- Record weight daily; a decline of more than 5 % signals inadequate intake or health issues.
Common errors to avoid:
- Using cow’s milk or generic pet formulas lacking the specific whey‑to‑casein ratio required by rodents.
- Over‑diluting the replacer, which reduces caloric density and impairs growth.
- Skipping feedings during nighttime; pups cannot store energy and will lose weight rapidly.
- Ignoring signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, skin tenting) and failing to supplement with sterile saline if necessary.
Proper nutrition during the neonatal period determines survival rate, growth velocity, and future reproductive performance. Adhering to the outlined formula composition, feeding schedule, and hygiene standards ensures optimal development of baby mice.