What should you do if you hear mice in the house? - briefly
Identify entry points, seal them, and set snap traps or bait stations along walls; if activity continues, engage a licensed pest‑control professional.
What should you do if you hear mice in the house? - in detail
If you detect the sound of mice inside your home, immediate action is required to prevent infestation, protect food supplies, and avoid structural damage.
First, confirm the presence of rodents. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, shredded material, and fresh nests in concealed areas such as behind appliances, under sinks, and within wall cavities. Use a flashlight to inspect dark corners and attic spaces.
Next, eliminate access points. Seal cracks, gaps around pipes, and openings around doors and windows with steel wool, caulk, or expanding foam. Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens. Reducing entry routes limits further intrusion.
Then, remove attractants. Store pantry items in airtight containers, clean up spilled grains, and dispose of garbage in sealed bags. Eliminate standing water sources by fixing leaks and drying damp areas.
After securing the environment, implement control measures:
- Set snap traps or electronic traps along walls, near known pathways, and behind furniture. Place bait (peanut butter, chocolate, or dried fruit) on the trigger mechanism. Check traps daily and dispose of captured rodents promptly.
- Deploy multiple-catch live traps if humane capture is preferred. Release captured mice at least five miles from the residence, following local wildlife regulations.
- Apply rodent-resistant bait stations containing anticoagulant poison only when other methods fail and when pets or children are not at risk. Follow label instructions and consider professional application.
Finally, monitor the situation for several weeks. Re‑inspect for new signs of activity and maintain a regular schedule of trap checks and perimeter inspections. If evidence of ongoing infestation persists, engage a licensed pest‑control specialist to conduct a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include rodenticide baiting, structural sealing, and ongoing monitoring services.