How can I get rid of mice in an apartment that has a cat? - briefly
Seal all possible entry gaps, place cat‑safe «snap traps» with peanut‑butter bait away from the cat’s path, and store food in sealed containers. Maintain regular cleaning to remove attractants and let the cat hunt any remaining mice.
How can I get rid of mice in an apartment that has a cat? - in detail
Eliminate rodent activity in a dwelling where a feline predator resides by combining environmental control, exclusion techniques, and safe trapping methods.
Identify and block all potential entry points. Inspect walls, floors, windows, and utility openings for gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Apply steel wool, copper mesh, or silicone sealant to seal cracks. Install door sweeps and weather stripping to prevent ingress.
Remove attractants that may draw rodents despite the cat’s presence. Store dry food in airtight containers, keep pet food bowls empty after meals, and dispose of garbage in sealed bins. Clean countertops and floors regularly to eliminate crumbs.
Implement trapping strategies that do not endanger the cat. Use snap traps placed along walls, behind appliances, or inside concealed boxes, positioning them perpendicular to the wall with the trigger end facing the wall. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or nesting material. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents promptly.
Consider humane live‑catch traps if lethal methods are undesirable. Position traps in areas inaccessible to the cat, such as inside cabinets or behind furniture. Release captured rodents at least one mile from the residence to reduce the chance of return.
Maintain the cat’s effectiveness by ensuring it is healthy, vaccinated, and not overly stressed. Provide regular veterinary care, adequate nutrition, and opportunities for natural hunting behavior, such as interactive toys that simulate prey movement.
Monitor the situation continuously. Record trap captures, inspect sealed entry points for new breaches, and adjust bait or trap placement as needed. Persistent exclusion and diligent sanitation will reduce rodent populations even in the presence of a domestic cat.