What should you do if you see a mouse at home? - briefly
Seal food sources, block entry points, and set traps or contact professional pest control; act promptly to prevent an infestation.
What should you do if you see a mouse at home? - in detail
When a rodent appears inside a dwelling, immediate, systematic action reduces the risk of infestation. First, contain the area by closing doors and limiting the mouse’s access to other rooms. Turn off lights in the affected space and use a flashlight to observe movement without startling the animal.
Next, locate signs of activity—droppings, gnaw marks, or nesting material—to determine where the creature is traveling. Identify potential entry points such as gaps around pipes, vents, or baseboards. Seal openings larger than a quarter‑inch with steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing; smaller cracks can be filled with expanding foam.
Implement control measures:
- Choose an appropriate trap type (snap, electronic, or live‑catch) based on personal preference and safety considerations.
- Place traps along walls, behind appliances, and near identified pathways; rodents tend to run close to surfaces.
- Bait traps with high‑protein attractants such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or small pieces of meat. Refresh bait regularly to maintain effectiveness.
- Check traps daily. Dispose of captured rodents promptly, wearing gloves and sealing them in a plastic bag before discarding in an outdoor trash bin.
Maintain a clean environment to deter future visits. Store food in airtight containers, clean crumbs and spills immediately, and keep garbage bins sealed. Reduce clutter that could provide shelter, especially in basements, attics, and storage closets.
If activity persists after several days of trapping and sealing, or if structural damage is evident, contact a licensed pest‑control professional. Expert technicians can conduct a thorough inspection, apply targeted treatments, and advise on long‑term exclusion strategies.