What should I feed mice in a domestic setting? - briefly
Provide a balanced diet of high‑quality mouse pellets complemented by small portions of fresh fruit, vegetable, and occasional protein items such as boiled egg or mealworms. Ensure constant access to clean water.
What should I feed mice in a domestic setting? - in detail
A balanced diet for a pet mouse combines commercially prepared rodent pellets with fresh foods and occasional protein supplements. Pellets should form the staple because they contain the required mix of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Choose a high‑quality, nutritionally complete product and provide it in a clean feeder to prevent contamination.
Fresh items add variety and essential nutrients. Offer small portions of the following each day:
- Leafy greens (e.g., kale, romaine lettuce, spinach) – wash thoroughly, remove tough stems.
- Non‑citrus fruits (e.g., apple slices, berries, banana) – limit to a few bite‑size pieces to avoid excess sugar.
- Root vegetables (e.g., carrots, sweet potato) – peeled and diced.
- Cooked lean protein (e.g., boiled egg white, plain cooked chicken, mealworms) – 1–2 small pieces.
Treats should be given sparingly. Suitable options include unsalted nuts, plain popcorn, or small amounts of whole‑grain cereal. Avoid sugary snacks, salty foods, and anything seasoned with spices.
Water must be fresh, clean, and available at all times. Use a sipper bottle with a metal spout to prevent chewing damage. Replace the water daily and clean the bottle regularly.
Nutrition management includes:
- Monitoring intake: Observe the mouse’s eating habits; a sudden drop may signal illness.
- Adjusting portions: Adult mice typically consume 3–5 g of pellets per day; supplement with fresh foods as described.
- Eliminating hazards: Do not feed chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, avocado, onion, garlic, or processed foods high in fat or salt; these are toxic.
- Storing food: Keep pellets in an airtight container, and refrigerate fresh produce to maintain freshness and limit bacterial growth.
Regularly inspect the mouse’s coat, weight, and stool consistency. Healthy fur, steady weight, and normal droppings indicate an adequate diet. If concerns arise, consult a veterinarian experienced with small rodents.