What should I do if a mouse has gotten into a cupboard? - briefly
Isolate the cabinet by clearing out food, sealing cracks, and placing snap traps or approved bait inside; once the mouse is captured, dispose of it, disinfect the interior, and repair any entry points to prevent recurrence.
What should I do if a mouse has gotten into a cupboard? - in detail
If a small rodent has accessed a pantry enclosure, begin by isolating the area. Close the cabinet doors, seal any visible gaps, and turn off nearby lights to discourage movement.
Next, identify entry points. Examine the interior and exterior for holes, cracks, or gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Use a flashlight to inspect corners, backs of appliances, and the underside of shelves. Mark each opening for repair.
Implement an immediate control method:
- Place snap traps or electronic traps along the wall where the rodent was seen, positioning bait (peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit) at the rear to force the animal to trigger the device.
- Deploy a few live‑catch traps if humane capture is preferred; check them at least twice daily and release the animal far from the residence.
- Avoid using glue boards; they cause prolonged suffering and are difficult to clean.
After traps are set, monitor for activity. When a capture occurs, wear disposable gloves, remove the dead mouse, and seal it in a plastic bag for disposal. Disinfect the trap surface with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) and rinse with clean water.
Conduct thorough sanitation:
- Remove all food items from the cabinet and inspect each package for damage or contamination.
- Wash shelves, interior walls, and drawer faces with hot, soapy water, then apply the bleach solution.
- Allow the area to dry completely before restocking.
Finally, reinforce the enclosure to prevent recurrence:
- Seal gaps with steel wool combined with expanding foam, or install copper mesh where larger openings exist.
- Apply a thin strip of caulk around door frames and hinges.
- Install a door sweep or rubber gasket on the cabinet threshold.
- Keep stored food in airtight containers made of glass, metal, or heavy‑wall plastic.
By following these steps—containment, entry‑point identification, trapping, sanitation, and structural reinforcement—you eliminate the current infestation and reduce the likelihood of future incursions.