If you are a new parent and wonder can you feed baby mice cow milk, there are several alternatives. Human formula, goat’s milk, Evaporated milk and soy based human formula are acceptable fluids. Cow milk is a hard liquid for mice to digest. One of the most difficult things to figure out when caring for an orphaned mouse is its age. To help you determine its age, take measurements.
Contents
Goat’s milk
If your pet is a rodent, you may be wondering, “Can you feed baby mice goat’s milk?” Luckily, the answer to that question is a resounding yes. Goat milk is relatively cheap and easily available at most grocery stores. It is a great alternative to cow’s milk, as goat milk is easily digested by baby mice. There are several different types of formula, including soy-based human milk, goat milk, and puppy formula. There are also goat-milk-based formulas available on the market, and Creek Valley Critters’ formula recipe incorporates other nutritional supplements.
You can also use almond milk, but be sure to use goat milk instead of cow’s milk. While almond milk may look and smell like cow milk, goat milk is a better option. A goat’s milk baby formula contains similar nutrients to mice milk, so goat milk is a great choice for your pet. Some other brands of baby mice formulas contain additives that are unhealthy for them. Some of these products may not be digested properly by your mice, so use them sparingly.
Soy based human formula
A recent study suggests that soy based human formula may weaken the immune system of baby mice. Genistein, an ingredient found in soy-based infant formula, caused the young mice’s thymus gland to shrink, resulting in a decrease in white blood cells. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, has several implications for human health. In particular, it suggests that soy-based human formulas may be a cause for concern for the health of babies in the United States.
Donovan’s first study, published in the Journal of Nutrition in June 2004, treated intestinal cells in culture with genistein found in soy infant formula. His second study, published in Pediatric Research in February 2005, will test whether soy based human formulas affect the development of human thyroxine levels in mice. The third and fourth studies are expected to be published in the same journal, Pediatric Research.
Evaporated milk
You can feed baby mice liquid mixtures, such as diluted syringes, but they will not be able to chew on solids at first. However, baby mice can be given puppy milk replacement, evaporated milk, or even human baby formula. It is better to use a puppy milk replacement, as it is better for mice’s digestive system. A syringe should be used to feed the baby mice, and you should feed them very slowly to avoid the risk of diarrhea and yellow stool.
For the first two weeks, baby mice can only drink mother’s milk. After that, they can start eating solid foods, such as cooked rice, beans, carrots, soft vegetables, and fruits. You can also give baby mice kitten milk formula, if the mother mouse cannot feed them. Feeding a kitten can take between two and three hours, but remember that it does not have teeth yet.
Pedialyte
In case you have a cow-milk-intolerant baby, Pedialyte is a good alternative for rehydrating your child. It is a fast-acting solution that replaces the lost fluids in your baby’s body. However, it should not be given to infants under one year old, as it may cause dehydration. It is best to give it in small quantities, up to two teaspoons at a time. When giving Pedialyte, it is best to use a syringe or spoon to ensure your baby’s safety. You should also seek medical attention immediately if you notice any adverse reactions to Pedialyte.
You can also use a mixture of 1/2 Pedialyte and one tablespoon of KMR. The mixture of Pedialyte and water is a good alternative to cow milk, though be sure to dilute it correctly. It is also better to use powder KMR, since it can be stored in the refrigerator for practically ever. Liquid KMR goes bad quickly and does not taste as good as the powder.
Human formula
There are various methods for feeding baby mice. A syringe with a fine curved tip works well, as does a doll nursing bottle. Regardless of which method you choose, be sure to monitor the feeding process and avoid getting formula in the baby’s lungs. Make sure that the mouse does not get too much milk, as this can lead to aspiration, which is basically drowning. If you do get milk into the baby’s lungs, flip the bottle upside down to prevent liquid from entering its lungs.
Alternatively, you can feed your baby a solution made of sugar water for the first few days, until he is able to drink a commercial formula. You will need one cup of hot water and about 3/4 teaspoon of sugar, or an equivalent amount of salt. You will need to stir the two ingredients together to dissolve them completely. This solution should be discarded after eight hours, as bacteria will start to grow in it.
