How can you catch a mouse in an apartment using a mouse trap? - briefly
Place a baited snap trap against walls, behind furniture, or in locations with evidence of activity, with the trigger side facing the wall. Check the trap each day and promptly remove and dispose of any captured rodent.
How can you catch a mouse in an apartment using a mouse trap? - in detail
To capture a rodent in a flat with a trap, follow a systematic approach that maximizes success while minimizing risk to occupants and pets.
First, choose a trap suited for indoor use. Snap traps, electronic traps, and humane catch‑and‑release devices are common. Snap traps provide immediate kill; electronic traps deliver a quick electric shock; humane traps allow relocation after capture. Select a model with a reliable trigger mechanism and a sturdy construction.
Second, prepare an effective bait. Peanut butter, small pieces of cheese, cooked bacon, or dried fruit attract mice because of strong odor and high fat content. Apply a pea‑size amount to the trigger area, ensuring it does not obstruct the spring.
Third, identify optimal placement locations. Mice travel along walls, behind appliances, and near food sources. Look for signs such as droppings, gnaw marks, or runways. Position traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger end facing the suspected travel path. Avoid high‑traffic human areas to reduce accidental activation.
Fourth, set the trap correctly. Load the spring or battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Place the bait, then engage the trigger. Test the mechanism gently to confirm sensitivity without causing premature release.
Fifth, monitor the trap regularly. Check every 12–24 hours, especially in the first few days. If a capture occurs, wear disposable gloves, seal the mouse in a plastic bag, and dispose of it in an outdoor trash container. For humane devices, release the animal at least 200 m from the residence, following local wildlife regulations.
Finally, maintain a preventive environment. Seal cracks, install door sweeps, store food in airtight containers, and keep the apartment clean of crumbs. Continuous exclusion reduces the likelihood of reinfestation after trapping.