Can Mice Eat Peanut Butter?

Technically mice can eat peanut butter, and will even go out of their way to do so, which is why it's such a popular trap bait. But your pet mouse should not be allowed to eat peanut butter because it can be dangerous.

Although they love peanut butter, the sticky, gooey nature of the spread is precisely why mice should never be given any. It can too easily block airways and cause your mouse to choke. Mice — like all rodents, in fact — lack not only the physiology to rid themselves of blockages or poisons through vomiting, but also the neurological need to do so via nausea.

Along with peanut butter, also avoid:

• Cabbage
• Chocolate
• Corn
• Candy
• Junk food
• Peanuts
• Uncooked beans
• Onions

This doesn't mean that your tiny whiskered pal must live without treats: There are many safe and tempting morsels that she would find just as delicious as forbidden peanut butter. Some ASPCA-recommended examples — served in moderation — include:

• Peas
• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Apples
• Bananas

Experiment with different safe foods until you find ones that your mouse likes best. Mice like variety, and enjoy playing games with new treats as well as old favorites. A good rule of thumb when it comes to introducing a new food item is simply: If you aren't sure, don't feed it. A veterinarian specializing in small animal health will be able to give the thumbs up on foods that pose no risk, helping you and Mrs. Frisby stay on the safe side of snacks.