What to feed a captured mouse? - briefly
A captured mouse should receive a nutritionally balanced diet consisting primarily of commercial rodent pellets or mouse chow, supplemented with small amounts of boiled egg, cooked lean meat, and occasional fresh fruits or vegetables. Fresh water must be available at all times, and treats should be limited to prevent obesity.
What to feed a captured mouse? - in detail
Feeding a captured mouse requires meeting its dietary and hydration needs while avoiding harmful substances.
Mice are omnivorous rodents that thrive on a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. A diet that replicates natural intake supports health, reduces stress, and promotes recovery after capture.
Essential food components
- Protein sources: boiled egg white, cooked chicken breast, low‑fat cottage cheese, or commercial mouse/rat chow containing at least 18 % protein.
- Carbohydrate sources: small pieces of fresh fruit (apple, banana), cooked oatmeal, or whole‑grain bread.
- Fat sources: a few drops of vegetable oil or a pinch of unsalted nuts (almonds, peanuts) for essential fatty acids.
- Fiber: shredded wheat, plain popcorn, or a small amount of raw vegetables (carrot, cucumber).
Hydration
- Provide fresh, clean water in a shallow dish or a bottle with a sipper tip.
- Offer moist foods such as fruit slices or a dab of plain yogurt to supplement fluid intake.
Feeding schedule
- Offer food twice daily, morning and evening, removing leftovers after 12 hours to prevent spoilage.
- Monitor consumption; a healthy mouse will eat a few grams per day, roughly 5–10 % of body weight.
Safety considerations
- Exclude toxic items: chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, citrus peels, onions, garlic, and processed foods containing salt or sugar.
- Avoid raw beans, raw potatoes, and any moldy or spoiled material.
- Ensure that all food is cut into bite‑size pieces to prevent choking.
Transition to a stable diet
- Begin with a soft, easily digestible diet (e.g., commercial mouse pellets soaked briefly in water) for the first 24–48 hours.
- Gradually introduce fresh items as the mouse shows steady intake and normal behavior.
By adhering to these guidelines, a captured mouse receives the nutrition required for survival and potential release or long‑term care.