How can you lure a mouse out from under a cupboard in an apartment? - briefly
Use a high‑fat bait (e.g., peanut butter) on a piece of cardboard positioned at the cupboard’s entrance, then lightly tap or shake the cabinet to encourage the mouse to come out.
How can you lure a mouse out from under a cupboard in an apartment? - in detail
To free a rodent concealed beneath a kitchen cabinet in an apartment, follow a systematic approach that combines attraction, confinement, and removal.
First, identify the exact location of activity. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, or fresh scent trails. Clean the area with a mild disinfectant to eliminate competing odors that might deter the lure.
Second, select an appropriate bait. High‑protein foods such as peanut butter, cooked egg, or bits of cheese work best. Place a small amount on a piece of cardboard or a disposable dish and position it directly under the cabinet opening or in a shallow tray that the mouse can reach without leaving its hiding spot.
Third, set a humane trap near the bait. Options include:
- Snap‑style trap with a quick‑acting mechanism; load with a pea‑sized amount of bait.
- Live‑catch cage with a trigger plate; ensure the entry gap is no larger than 2 cm.
- Glue board placed against the cabinet wall; reserve for short‑term use only due to animal welfare concerns.
Check the trap at intervals of 15–30 minutes. Once capture occurs, wear disposable gloves, transport the mouse outdoors at least 100 meters from the residence, and release it near natural cover.
If trapping fails after several attempts, consider these supplementary measures:
- Seal entry points by applying steel wool, caulk, or metal flashings to cracks and gaps around pipes and baseboards.
- Reduce attractants by storing food in airtight containers, removing clutter, and maintaining regular cleaning routines.
- Employ ultrasonic repellents sparingly; their efficacy varies and they should not replace physical trapping.
Finally, monitor the area for several days. Re‑inspect for new signs of activity and repeat the bait‑and‑trap cycle if necessary. Persistent removal of the source and exclusion of access will prevent re‑infestation.