How do you get rid of rats and mice? - briefly
Implement exclusion, sanitation, and targeted baiting or trapping to eliminate infestations. Seal entry points, remove food sources, and apply approved rodenticides or snap traps in accordance with local regulations.
How do you get rid of rats and mice? - in detail
Eliminating rats and mice requires an integrated approach that combines prevention, habitat modification, trapping, and, when necessary, professional extermination.
Identify and seal entry points. Conduct a thorough inspection of the building’s exterior and interior, focusing on gaps around pipes, vents, doors, and foundations. Apply steel wool, metal flashing, or concrete to close openings no larger than a quarter‑inch.
Reduce attractants. Store food in airtight containers, clean up crumbs and spills promptly, and manage waste in sealed bins. Remove standing water sources and keep vegetation trimmed at least twelve inches from the structure to limit shelter.
Implement trapping strategies.
- Snap traps: Position along walls, behind appliances, and in concealed pathways. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or fish. Check daily and dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations.
- Live‑catch traps: Use for humane removal when relocation is permitted. Release captured animals at a distance of at least five miles from the property.
- Electronic traps: Deliver rapid, high‑voltage shock; suitable for indoor use where discretion is required.
Apply rodenticides cautiously. Select products approved by regulatory agencies, place bait stations in tamper‑resistant containers, and locate them away from children, pets, and non‑target wildlife. Follow label instructions precisely; improper use can result in secondary poisoning and legal penalties.
Consider professional pest‑control services for severe infestations. Certified technicians can perform advanced techniques such as perimeter baiting, structural fumigation, and ongoing monitoring programs.
Maintain ongoing vigilance. Conduct quarterly inspections, replenish traps and bait, and keep the environment unattractive to rodents. Consistent application of these measures minimizes the risk of re‑infestation and protects health, property, and food safety.