What should you feed domestic rats and mice? - briefly
Provide a high‑quality commercial rodent pellet as the primary diet, and supplement it with fresh vegetables, fruits, and occasional protein sources such as cooked egg or mealworms. Ensure water is always available and avoid sugary or fatty human foods.
What should you feed domestic rats and mice? - in detail
A balanced diet for pet rodents must include a reliable commercial base, fresh vegetables, occasional fruits, protein sources, and safe treats. The commercial base—pellets or blocks formulated specifically for rats and mice—provides essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Select a product with at least 18 % protein for rats and 14–16 % for mice; avoid mixes containing high levels of fat or artificial colors.
Fresh vegetables supply vitamins and hydration. Suitable options, offered daily in small quantities, include:
- Dark leafy greens (kale, spinach, romaine lettuce)
- Bell peppers, carrots, broccoli florets
- Cucumber, zucchini, celery
Fruits should be limited to 5–10 % of the total intake because of natural sugars. Acceptable choices are apple slices (seed‑free), blueberries, banana chunks, and pear pieces. Remove pits, cores, and skins that may contain toxins.
Protein can be supplied through:
- Cooked, unseasoned eggs (hard‑boiled, quartered)
- Small portions of lean meat (chicken, turkey)
- Insects (mealworms, crickets) offered a few times per week
Treats must be safe and low‑calorie. Examples are plain unsalted popcorn, whole‑grain crackers, or small pieces of cheese (no more than once weekly). Avoid sugary snacks, chocolate, caffeine, and processed human foods.
Water should be fresh, clean, and available at all times. Use a hanging bottle with a stainless‑steel tube to prevent contamination. Replace water daily and clean the bottle weekly.
A typical daily schedule:
- Morning: refill water, provide a measured portion of pellets, add a handful of fresh vegetables.
- Mid‑day: monitor food consumption, remove uneaten perishables after 12 hours.
- Evening: offer a protein supplement (e.g., a quarter of a hard‑boiled egg) and a small treat.
- Night: ensure water bottle is functional; no additional food is needed.
Regularly inspect the diet for mold, spoilage, or excessive dust. Adjust portions based on the animal’s weight, activity level, and reproductive status. A veterinarian experienced with small rodents should evaluate the feeding plan annually to confirm nutritional adequacy.