What should you do about mice in the house? - briefly
Seal all gaps and openings, place snap traps or bait stations, and keep food storage and waste areas clean to deter further activity. If the problem continues, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional.
What should you do about mice in the house? - in detail
Mice entering a residence require immediate, systematic action to protect health, preserve property, and prevent recurrence.
First, identify entry points. Inspect walls, foundation, windows, doors, and utility openings. Look for gnaw marks, droppings, or nesting material. Seal gaps larger than a quarter‑inch with steel wool, copper mesh, or caulk; use expanding foam for larger openings. Repair damaged screens and weather‑stripping.
Second, eliminate food sources. Store pantry items in airtight containers. Keep countertops, floors, and pet feeding areas clean of crumbs. Remove garbage regularly and use bins with tight‑fitting lids.
Third, set up trapping devices. Choose from the following options, based on preference and local regulations:
- Snap traps: quick kill, reusable, placed perpendicular to walls where activity is observed.
- Live‑catch traps: humane capture, require immediate release far from the property (minimum 2 mi) or disposal according to local guidelines.
- Electronic traps: deliver a lethal shock, contain the carcass for easy disposal.
Position traps along walls, behind appliances, and in dark corners. Bait with high‑protein foods such as peanut butter, cheese, or dried fruit. Check traps daily, dispose of captured mice, and reset as needed.
Fourth, consider chemical controls only as a last resort. If using rodenticides, follow label instructions precisely, wear protective gloves, and keep products inaccessible to children and pets. Store unused poison in its original container.
Fifth, maintain a preventive environment. Trim vegetation away from the building’s foundation, keep firewood elevated, and ensure proper drainage to reduce moisture that attracts rodents. Schedule periodic inspections, especially after seasonal changes.
Finally, document actions taken and monitor for signs of renewed activity. Persistent evidence after several weeks may indicate a larger infestation requiring professional pest‑management services. Professionals can perform comprehensive inspections, apply advanced baiting systems, and provide warranties for continued protection.