Rats and mice both originated in Asia and are popular pets. The average life span for a rat is 2.5-3.5 years while mice will live between 1.5-3 years. Feeding a commercial diet for mice and rats should meet all of the requirements for these animals. Most deficiencies seen in these animals are produced experimentally and are generally not seen in pets.

Protein requirements for rats are 10% for maintenance and 20% for growth and reproduction, while mice need between 17-24% crude protein. Fiber content should be around 5% for rats and at least 2.5% for mice. Fat should stay less than 5% for both mice and rats, and treats should not comprise more than 10% of the total diet.

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