Most rodents exhibit a degree of coprophagy. This means that fecal pellets are frequently consumed. This is primarily a method by which these animals obtain B-vitamins and varying levels of protein. In young rodents, maternal feces is consumed as a means of populating their digestive tracts with bacteria.

Anorexia, weight loss and dehydration are commonly observed in pet rodents. Insuring that water is accessible to the rodent at all times, and that the rodent is able to reach and manipulate its food can prevent many of these conditions. Other causes of these problems include such things as inappropriate or sudden changing of diets, poor hygiene, temperature or other environmental stressors.

The last aspect of nutrition to keep in mind when dealing with rodents is the 4 continuously growing incisor teeth. The gnawing behavior of rodents helps to keep these incisors properly worn down provided suitable materials (usually dietary) are provided. If these teeth become over-grown, prehension of food will become difficult, possibly painful to the animal, and veterinary intervention will be required.

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