What should I do about a mouse in the apartment? - briefly
Seal all possible entry points, place snap traps or bait stations, and keep food storage secure and the area clean; if the problem continues, engage a licensed pest‑control professional.
What should I do about a mouse in the apartment? - in detail
A rodent presence in a residential unit requires immediate action to protect health, property, and comfort. Identify entry points by inspecting walls, floors, windows, and utility openings; any gap larger than a quarter‑inch can serve as a passage. Seal openings with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh, because rodents can gnaw through softer materials.
Eliminate food sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, keep countertops clear of crumbs, and dispose of waste in sealed bins. Regular cleaning removes scent trails that attract further activity.
Select control methods based on safety and effectiveness:
- Snap traps: positioned perpendicular to walls, with bait such as peanut butter or cheese; check and reset daily.
- Live‑catch traps: allow relocation of captured animals, but release must comply with local regulations.
- Electronic traps: deliver a lethal shock; require power source and periodic cleaning.
- Bait stations: contain anticoagulant or non‑anticoagulant poison; restrict access to children and pets, and follow label instructions.
Place traps along established runways, typically within 12‑18 inches of walls, and behind objects where rodents hide. Rotate bait types if capture rates decline.
Maintain sanitation after removal. Wash surfaces with disinfectant, launder bedding, and vacuum crevices to eradicate urine and droppings, which can transmit disease.
If infestation persists despite these measures, contact a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can perform comprehensive inspections, apply rodenticides safely, and provide long‑term exclusion solutions.