How can a mouse be caught in a refrigerator? - briefly
Place a snap or live trap inside the fridge, bait it with peanut butter, and keep the door sealed until the rodent is captured. Then remove the trap, clean the interior, and seal any gaps to prevent re‑entry.
How can a mouse be caught in a refrigerator? - in detail
A rodent that has entered a refrigerator requires a safe, controlled approach because the appliance contains food and electrical components.
First, disconnect the unit from power to eliminate the risk of electric shock and to prevent the motor from operating while the trap is set. Remove all removable shelves, drawers, and door seals; place them on a clean surface away from the fridge. Inspect the interior for signs of activity—droppings, gnaw marks, or the animal itself. If the mouse is visible, use a humane live‑catch trap or a snap trap positioned directly behind the creature, ensuring the bait is placed at the far end to encourage entry.
If the rodent is not immediately observable, employ these steps:
- Bait placement – Attach a small amount of high‑protein bait (peanut butter, cheese, or dried meat) to the back of a trap; secure the trap to a shelf or the interior wall using tape or a non‑slip mat.
- Trap selection – Choose a trap type appropriate for the fridge’s limited space; a compact, spring‑loaded snap trap or a small cage trap works best.
- Monitoring – Check the trap at least every two hours to avoid prolonged confinement, which could cause stress or injury to the animal.
- Removal – Once captured, transport the trap to an outdoor release site at least 100 m from the residence, or, if using a lethal trap, dispose of the carcass according to local regulations.
- Sanitation – Thoroughly clean the interior with a mild detergent, then apply a food‑safe disinfectant. Dry all surfaces completely before reassembling shelves and seals.
- Prevention – Seal gaps around the fridge’s power cord, ventilation openings, and floor contact points with steel wool and caulk. Store food in airtight containers to eliminate attractants.
By following this systematic procedure—power disconnection, targeted trapping, prompt removal, thorough cleaning, and sealing entry routes—a mouse can be effectively captured and prevented from reentering the refrigerator.