What vitamins do mice need? - briefly
Laboratory mice need vitamin A, vitamin D₃, vitamin E (α‑tocopherol), vitamin K₁, the full B‑vitamin complex (B₁, B₂, B₃, B₅, B₆, B₁₂, folate), and vitamin C when their diet does not already provide it.
What vitamins do mice need? - in detail
Mice require a complete set of vitamins to support growth, reproduction, and metabolic functions. The nutrients are divided into water‑soluble and fat‑soluble groups, each with specific dietary concentrations measured per kilogram of feed.
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Water‑soluble vitamins
- Thiamine (B1): 1–2 mg
- Riboflavin (B2): 2–3 mg
- Niacin (B3): 15–20 mg
- Pantothenic acid (B5): 5–10 mg
- Pyridoxine (B6): 2–4 mg
- Cobalamin (B12): 0.015–0.025 mg
- Folic acid: 2–4 mg
- Biotin: 0.02–0.04 mg
- Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C): 10–15 mg
- Choline (often grouped with B‑complex): 1–2 g
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Fat‑soluble vitamins
- Retinol (Vitamin A): 3–5 IU/g (≈900–1500 IU/kg)
- Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3): 1 IU/g (≈300 IU/kg)
- α‑Tocopherol (Vitamin E): 30–50 IU/g (≈9000–15000 IU/kg)
- Phylloquinone (Vitamin K): 0.5–1 mg
Standard laboratory rodent diets incorporate these vitamins as premixed concentrates, ensuring uniform distribution and protection from oxidation. Vitamin A and D are supplied as retinyl acetate and cholecalciferol, respectively; vitamin E is added as dl‑α‑tocopheryl acetate; vitamin K is provided as phylloquinone. Water‑soluble vitamins are typically added as stable salts (e.g., thiamine mononitrate, riboflavin‑5′‑phosphate).
Deficiencies manifest rapidly: lack of vitamin B1 leads to neurological signs; insufficient vitamin D causes rickets; inadequate vitamin E results in hemolytic anemia. Conversely, excesses, particularly of fat‑soluble vitamins, can produce toxicity—hypervitaminosis A produces liver damage, while high vitamin D levels cause hypercalcemia.
Commercial formulations aim for the mid‑range of the cited concentrations, accommodating most strains and life stages. Adjustments may be necessary for pregnant or lactating females, where vitamin A and D requirements increase by 20–30 %. Monitoring feed analysis and animal health records ensures that vitamin intake remains within optimal limits.