What do mice gnaw in an apartment? - briefly
Mice commonly gnaw electrical cords, plastic insulation, wooden framing, and packaging materials such as cardboard or foil. These actions create fire hazards, structural damage, and contamination of stored food.
What do mice gnaw in an apartment? - in detail
Mice entering a residential unit target a range of materials to satisfy the constant need to wear down their incisors. Their selection is guided by availability, texture and nutritional value.
«Electrical insulation» and copper conductors are frequently chewed, creating fire hazards and disrupting power. Wood components such as baseboard trim, door frames and furniture legs provide easy access for incisors, leading to structural weakening. Plastic items—including food‑storage containers, cable jackets and household appliance casings—offer pliable surfaces that support rapid gnawing. Soft, fibrous substances such as paper, cardboard, insulation fibers and fabric are incorporated into nests, yet also suffer extensive damage. Sealants, caulking and rubber gaskets are eroded when mice attempt to create entry points or enlarge existing openings.
The underlying driver is the continuous growth of mouse incisors, which extend approximately 0.2 mm each day. Gnawing creates wear that maintains a functional bite length and prevents overgrowth that could impair feeding. Additionally, the act of chewing produces saliva containing enzymes that may help sterilize the material and reduce pathogen load within the nest.
Damage to wiring can trigger short circuits, while compromised structural elements may lead to costly repairs. Contaminated food packaging and torn fabric introduce allergens and disease vectors. Prompt identification of gnawed objects, combined with sealing of entry routes and removal of attractants, reduces the risk of infestation escalation.