Why do mice eat paper? - briefly
Mice gnaw paper because it satisfies their innate need to chew constantly, and the material offers a source of cellulose and moisture that can supplement a limited diet. The behavior also helps wear down continuously growing incisors, preventing dental problems.
Why do mice eat paper? - in detail
Mice gnaw paper primarily for nutritional and behavioral reasons. Their incisors grow continuously; constant chewing wears down tooth length and prevents overgrowth. Paper provides a readily available, low‑density material that satisfies this mechanical need.
Nutrient content also influences consumption. Paper contains cellulose, a polysaccharide that some rodent species can partially digest through symbiotic gut microbes. Although cellulose offers limited energy, it can supplement a diet lacking fresh vegetation or grain.
Environmental factors increase the likelihood of paper ingestion. In confined spaces such as laboratories, homes, or storage facilities, paper may be one of the few soft substrates present. Limited access to preferred foods, seasonal scarcity, or competition with other rodents drives opportunistic feeding on available fibrous matter.
Additional motivations include:
- Nest construction – shredded paper serves as insulation and structural filler for burrows or nests.
- Moisture absorption – damp paper can provide a source of water when free water is scarce.
- Exploratory behavior – tactile investigation of new objects often involves gnawing, which can lead to accidental ingestion.
Physiological studies show that prolonged consumption of paper may cause gastrointestinal blockage or reduced nutrient absorption, emphasizing the need for alternative fiber sources in captive care. Providing chew sticks, untreated wood, or fiber‑rich foods can mitigate the tendency to target paper products.