What to feed a house mouse? - briefly
House mice should be offered a balanced mix of grains, seeds, small fruits, and occasional protein sources like insects or cooked egg, while steering clear of processed foods, citrus, and any toxic substances.
What to feed a house mouse? - in detail
A house mouse requires a balanced diet that supplies protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Commercial rodent pellets formulated for laboratory mice deliver a complete nutritional profile; each pellet typically contains 18–20 % protein, 4–5 % fat, and essential micronutrients. Offer pellets in a shallow dish, replenishing daily to maintain freshness.
Supplement the base ration with natural foods that mimic a mouse’s omnivorous habits. Suitable options include:
- Cooked lean meats (chicken, turkey) – small, bite‑size pieces, 1–2 g per feeding.
- Hard‑boiled eggs – quartered, no more than two times per week.
- Low‑fat dairy (plain yogurt, cottage cheese) – a teaspoon, occasional treat.
- Fresh fruits (apple, banana, berries) – finely diced, limited to 5 % of total intake to prevent sugar overload.
- Vegetables (carrot, broccoli, peas) – raw or lightly steamed, chopped, providing fiber and vitamins.
- Whole grains (oats, brown rice, whole‑wheat bread) – small portions, 2–3 g per day.
Avoid foods that can cause toxicity or digestive distress: chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, citrus peels, raw beans, and high‑salt or high‑fat processed snacks. Toxic substances such as nicotine, pesticides, and heavy metals must be excluded entirely.
Water is essential; provide clean, filtered water in a bottle with a sipper tube, refreshed daily. Do not leave standing water in open bowls, as it encourages bacterial growth.
Feeding schedule should consist of continuous access to pellets, with supplemental items offered two to three times daily. Monitor consumption; a healthy adult mouse typically eats 3–5 g of dry food per day. Adjust portions based on body condition, activity level, and age. Juvenile mice require higher protein (up to 22 %) and more frequent feeding intervals, approximately every four hours.
Regularly inspect food for mold, spoilage, or contamination. Replace uneaten fresh items each evening. Maintaining a hygienic environment reduces the risk of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, supporting optimal growth and longevity.