How can you get rid of mice and rats? - briefly
Seal entry points, eliminate food sources, and deploy traps or bait stations; for severe problems, engage a professional pest‑control service.
How can you get rid of mice and rats? - in detail
Eliminating rodents from residential or commercial spaces requires a systematic approach that combines prevention, habitat modification, and control methods.
Identify and seal entry points. Inspect walls, foundations, doors, windows, and utility openings for gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Use steel wool, caulk, or concrete to close cracks; install door sweeps and weatherstripping.
Reduce food and water sources. Store grains, cereals, and pet food in airtight containers. Clean up spills promptly, keep countertops free of crumbs, and fix leaky pipes or dripping fixtures.
Remove shelter opportunities. Declutter storage areas, keep firewood off the floor, and trim vegetation that contacts the building. Maintain a tidy yard by disposing of garden waste and compost in sealed bins.
Apply trapping techniques. Choose from snap traps, electronic traps, or multi‑catch cages, placing them along walls, behind appliances, and near known activity zones. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial rodent attractants. Check traps daily and dispose of captured animals according to local regulations.
Consider rodenticides only when other measures fail. Select products labeled for indoor or outdoor use, follow label directions precisely, and keep them out of reach of children and non‑target animals. Wear protective gloves during handling and placement.
Monitor progress. Set up motion‑activated cameras or use tracking powders to confirm reduced activity. Repeat sealing and sanitation steps as needed to prevent reinfestation.
If infestations persist despite these actions, enlist a licensed pest‑management professional for integrated pest‑management services, including advanced baiting systems and ongoing monitoring.