How can I get rid of household rodents—mice and rats? - briefly
Seal entry points, set snap traps or bait stations in active areas, and maintain a clean environment to remove food and water sources. If infestation persists, enlist a professional pest‑control service.
How can I get rid of household rodents—mice and rats? - in detail
Eliminate indoor rodents by following a systematic approach: identify entry points, remove attractants, deploy control devices, and maintain barriers.
Begin with a thorough inspection. Look for gnaw marks, droppings, grease smears, and nesting material along walls, behind appliances, and in attics or basements. Trace the paths to locate cracks, gaps around pipes, vents, and utility openings. Seal openings larger than ¼ inch with steel wool, copper mesh, or cement; smaller gaps can be closed with caulk.
Sanitation reduces food sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills immediately, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Eliminate standing water by fixing leaks and drying damp areas, as moisture attracts both species.
Deploy control devices strategically. Use snap traps for immediate kill; place them perpendicular to walls, with the trigger end facing the rodent’s travel route. For humane capture, employ live‑catch traps and release captured animals at least one mile from the residence. Bait traps with high‑protein items such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or small pieces of cooked meat. Position baited traps near observed activity, but away from children and pets.
If poison is considered, choose anticoagulant baits in tamper‑resistant stations and follow label instructions precisely. Monitor stations regularly, replace depleted bait, and dispose of dead rodents in sealed bags. Recognize that rodenticides pose secondary poisoning risks to non‑target wildlife and pets.
When infestations persist despite these measures, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can conduct comprehensive assessments, apply rodent‑proofing materials, and use advanced baiting systems that comply with safety regulations.
Maintain long‑term protection by conducting periodic inspections, repairing structural damage promptly, and keeping the environment inhospitable to rodents. Consistent application of exclusion, sanitation, and monitoring will prevent re‑infestation and safeguard the household.