How can you get rid of rats and mice in a third‑floor apartment? - briefly
Seal cracks, gaps, and vent openings; remove food, water, and clutter; use snap traps, electronic traps, or sealed bait stations; and call a pest‑control professional if the problem continues. Keep the apartment clean and periodically check for new entry points.
How can you get rid of rats and mice in a third‑floor apartment? - in detail
Eliminating rodents from a high‑rise residence requires a systematic approach that combines exclusion, sanitation, and control measures.
First, identify all possible entry points. Inspect walls, windows, doors, vents, and utility openings for gaps larger than ¼ in. Seal cracks with steel wool, caulk, or expanding foam; reinforce door sweeps and install mesh over vents. Pay special attention to the area around the kitchen and bathroom, where plumbing penetrations often provide easy access.
Second, remove food and water sources that attract pests. Store dry goods in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills promptly, and keep garbage in sealed bins taken out regularly. Fix leaky faucets and eliminate standing water in sinks, pet dishes, and plant trays.
Third, deploy trapping and baiting devices. Use snap traps or electronic traps along walls, behind appliances, and in dark corners; place them perpendicular to the wall with the trigger end facing the wall. Bait stations containing anticoagulant or bromethalin rodenticides should be positioned out of reach of children and pets, preferably in locked compartments. Replace or relocate devices when activity is observed.
Fourth, monitor progress. Record trap catches daily, inspect sealed openings for new signs of activity, and adjust placement of devices as needed. Continue these actions for at least two weeks after the last sighting to ensure the population is fully suppressed.
Fifth, consider professional pest‑control services if infestations persist. Licensed operators can apply low‑toxicity baits, conduct thorough inspections, and provide warranties that include follow‑up visits.
Finally, maintain preventative habits. Perform quarterly inspections of seals, keep the living space tidy, and avoid storing clutter that creates hiding places. Consistent application of these measures will keep the apartment rodent‑free.