What should you do if a mouse is roaming the house? - briefly
Seal all possible entryways, place appropriate traps or bait stations, and store food in sealed containers; maintain a clean environment to eliminate attractants. If the problem continues, engage a licensed pest‑control professional.
What should you do if a mouse is roaming the house? - in detail
A mouse inside a residence signals an entry point, food source, or shelter that needs correction. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, and tracks to locate activity zones.
Secure all possible openings: install steel wool or copper mesh in gaps around pipes, vents, and foundation cracks; replace damaged weather‑stripping; and ensure doors and windows close tightly.
Choose control methods based on safety and effectiveness.
- Snap traps: position perpendicular to walls, bait with peanut butter or chocolate, set in concealed areas such as behind appliances.
- Live‑catch traps: place near known pathways, check frequently, release at least one mile from the property.
- Electronic traps: insert into walls or corners, follow manufacturer instructions for power source and disposal.
Maintain a clean environment to deter future incursions. Store food in sealed containers, clean crumbs immediately, and manage garbage with tight‑fitting lids. Reduce clutter that can serve as nesting material; keep basements, attics, and crawl spaces well‑ventilated.
If infestations persist after sealing and trapping, contact a licensed pest‑management professional. They can assess structural vulnerabilities, apply rodenticides safely, and provide a long‑term exclusion plan.