How to catch a mouse in a house? - briefly
Place snap or live traps along walls and near food sources, using peanut butter or cheese as bait, then check them daily and remove any captured rodents promptly. Ensure traps are positioned where mouse pathways are evident to maximize capture efficiency.
How to catch a mouse in a house? - in detail
Capturing a mouse inside a residence requires systematic assessment, strategic placement of capture devices, and thorough sanitation to prevent recurrence.
First, verify activity. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, and oily streaks along walls. Identify entry points by inspecting gaps around pipes, vents, and baseboards; seal openings with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh.
Select appropriate traps. Options include:
- Snap traps: steel spring mechanism, baited with peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit. Position perpendicular to wall, with trigger end facing the mouse’s travel route.
- Live‑catch traps: wire cages with a single entry door, baited similarly. Check traps at least twice daily to avoid stress or death.
- Electronic traps: high‑voltage devices that deliver an instant kill. Require power source and occasional cleaning of carcass chamber.
- Glue boards: adhesive surface, less humane, may cause prolonged suffering; use only as a last resort.
Bait placement follows a consistent pattern. Apply a pea‑sized amount of attractant to the trigger plate, avoiding excess that could allow the mouse to feed without activating the mechanism. Replace bait every 24–48 hours to maintain potency.
Strategic positioning enhances success. Place traps along established runways—typically within 12 inches of walls, behind appliances, and near suspected entry points. Set multiple devices in a line, spaced 2–3 feet apart, to increase capture probability.
Monitor traps regularly. Record captures, replace non‑triggered devices, and adjust placement based on observed activity. Dispose of dead rodents in sealed bags, following local regulations.
After removal, implement preventive measures. Maintain a clean environment: store food in airtight containers, promptly clean crumbs, and manage waste in sealed bins. Reduce clutter that offers hiding places. Conduct periodic inspections of the building envelope to ensure seals remain intact.
If infestation persists despite these actions, consult a professional pest‑control service. They can provide advanced exclusion techniques and targeted treatments while ensuring compliance with safety standards.