Why do mice die on glue? - briefly
The sticky surface traps the animal, stopping it from moving, eating, or breathing normally, which causes rapid dehydration, exhaustion, and death. Some adhesives also contain toxic compounds that are absorbed through the skin, hastening the lethal effect.
Why do mice die on glue? - in detail
Mice become trapped in adhesive boards because the surface consists of a viscous polymer that adheres instantly to fur and skin. The adhesive creates a strong bond that the animal cannot overcome with its limited muscular strength. Once immobilized, several physiological processes lead to fatal outcomes.
The primary mechanisms are:
- Mechanical restraint – the mouse cannot move its limbs, preventing it from reaching food, water, or a safe temperature.
- Stress‑induced shock – prolonged inability to escape triggers a severe sympathetic response, elevating heart rate and blood pressure, which can cause cardiac arrest.
- Dehydration and starvation – without access to sustenance, fluid loss and energy depletion occur within hours to days, leading to organ failure.
- Thermoregulatory failure – loss of mobility reduces the animal’s capacity to generate heat, resulting in hypothermia, especially in cooler environments.
- Respiratory compromise – adhesive may coat the snout and nostrils, obstructing airflow and causing asphyxiation.
- Secondary injuries – attempts to free themselves can tear skin and fur, creating open wounds that increase the risk of infection and blood loss.
The glue itself is typically a non‑toxic polyacrylate formulation. Toxicity does not account for mortality; rather, the physical entrapment and subsequent physiological stress are decisive factors. In some cases, the adhesive contains additives such as bitterants to deter consumption, but these chemicals do not contribute significantly to lethal outcomes.
Ethical considerations have prompted the development of alternative traps that avoid prolonged suffering, such as snap traps or live‑capture devices. When using adhesive devices, humane guidelines recommend immediate euthanasia upon capture to prevent prolonged distress.