What to do if a mouse scratches at night? - briefly
Check for entry points, block them with steel wool or caulk, and place snap traps or humane catch‑and‑release devices near the activity. Clean the area, remove food sources, and monitor the traps until no further noise occurs.
What to do if a mouse scratches at night? - in detail
A nighttime scratching sound often indicates a rodent has entered the living space. The first step is to locate the origin. Follow the noise to the wall, ceiling, or floor area where the sound is strongest. Inspect for gnaw marks, droppings, or shredded material that reveal the animal’s pathway.
Once the entry point is identified, seal it. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or caulking to close gaps around pipes, vents, and baseboards. Ensure doors and windows have tight-fitting sweeps. Blocking access prevents further intrusion.
Set traps or bait stations near the activity zone. Choose from snap traps, live‑catch cages, or electronic devices, depending on personal preference and local regulations. Place traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger side facing the rodent’s travel direction. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or commercial attractants for maximum response.
If traps are not desired, apply deterrents. Sprinkle peppermint oil, mothballs, or ultrasonic repellers in the affected area. Replace deterrents regularly, as potency diminishes over time.
Maintain a clean environment to reduce attractants. Store food in sealed containers, clean crumbs promptly, and empty trash daily. Remove clutter that offers nesting material, such as cardboard boxes or piles of laundry.
Monitor the situation for several nights. A decrease in scratching indicates successful removal. If activity persists despite these measures, contact a licensed pest‑control professional for a comprehensive inspection and treatment plan.
Finally, protect health by wearing gloves when handling droppings or dead rodents, and disinfect surfaces with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) after removal. This prevents the spread of pathogens carried by rodents.