How can I drive rats or mice out of the house? - briefly
Seal all cracks, gaps, and openings; store food in airtight containers and maintain a clean environment. Then employ snap traps, live traps, or professional bait stations to eliminate any remaining rodents.
How can I drive rats or mice out of the house? - in detail
Rodent infestations require a systematic approach that combines exclusion, sanitation, and control measures. Begin by sealing every potential entry point. Inspect the building envelope, focusing on gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and windows. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or cement‑based sealant to close openings larger than ¼ inch, because rodents can compress their bodies to pass through very small spaces.
Next, eliminate food sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, clean up crumbs and spills immediately, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Reduce clutter in basements, attics, and storage areas, as piles of cardboard, fabric, or insulation provide nesting material and hiding places.
Deploy trapping devices strategically. Snap traps, positioned perpendicular to walls with the trigger end facing the wall, capture rodents efficiently. Bait with high‑fat items such as peanut butter or dried fruit. Place traps along known runways, typically near walls, behind appliances, and in dark corners. Check traps daily, dispose of captured animals promptly, and reset with fresh bait.
If trapping alone proves insufficient, consider bait stations containing anticoagulant or bromethalin rodenticides. Place stations out of reach of children and pets, following label instructions and local regulations. Rotate active ingredients periodically to prevent resistance development.
Maintain a regular inspection schedule. After initial eradication, monitor for new activity by looking for fresh droppings, gnaw marks, or gnawing sounds. Re‑seal any newly discovered gaps and replenish traps as needed. Consistent vigilance prevents re‑infestation and protects the structural integrity of the property.