What should I do if a cat brings a mouse into the house? - briefly
Wear disposable gloves, gently capture the mouse and release it outdoors. Then clean the area and inspect your cat for scratches or signs of illness.
What should I do if a cat brings a mouse into the house? - in detail
When a cat arrives with a captured rodent, first secure the animal to prevent injury to people or the pet. Gently restrain the cat, then assess whether the mouse is alive. If it is moving, use a thick glove or a sturdy container with a lid to capture it without direct contact. Place the mouse in a sealed bag and dispose of it in an outdoor trash bin, or release it far from the residence if local regulations permit. For a dead specimen, wear disposable gloves, pick it up with a paper towel or tongs, and discard it in the same sealed manner.
After removal, sanitize the area where the mouse was found. Clean surfaces with a disinfectant that is safe for pets, focusing on countertops, floors, and any upholstery the cat may have brushed against. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the animal or cleaning supplies. Check the cat for any signs of injury or parasites that could have been transferred from the prey.
To reduce future incidents, implement preventive measures:
- Keep doors and windows screened to limit the cat’s access to outdoor hunting grounds.
- Provide regular indoor enrichment—interactive toys, climbing posts, and scheduled play sessions—to satisfy predatory instincts.
- Feed the cat a balanced diet on a consistent schedule; a well‑nourished pet is less likely to hunt for supplemental food.
- Inspect the home for gaps in walls, crawl spaces, or basements where rodents may hide, and seal any openings.
By following these steps, you protect both the household and the feline from the hazards associated with captured prey.