THE BASICS OF PEST CONTROL FOR MICE Posted on December 3, 2015
Rats, mice and other rodents can become a nuisance when they come in close proximity to humans. In addition to spreading disease to both humans and household pets, rodents can also cause property damage and contaminate food sources. A variety of lethal and non-lethal techniques, including exclusion, habitat modification, and trapping are available that may effectively control these pests. A pet mouse may be an adorable friend, but rodents that come in from outdoors and make a residence into a home are very undesirable. Wild mice can cause a number of problems for homeowners and pose threats to pets and people, making pest control for mice important. Read on to learn what consumers need to know about dealing with mice infestations. Spotting Signs of Mice Homeowners should always be on the lookout for the signs of a mouse infestation, as the sooner pest control methods are employed, the easier it can be to deal with mice in a home. This is because mice can have an average of 5 to 10 litters of babies every year, so a small infestation can become a large one in very little time. Signs of mouse infestation include: • Odd, musky odors • Boxes, crates & clothing that is chewed • Pellet-like droppings • Scurrying or scratching sounds in the ceiling or walls Problems Caused by Mice Mice can cause a number of problems for homeowners. The rodents can do a considerable amount of damage to personal belongings, particularly when infestations are large. Feces left behind by mice can carry harmful germs that can make humans and pets sick. Preventative Pest Control for Mice Homeowners who are concerned about the risk of mice infestations can take steps to keep mice out by: • Storing food in tightly-sealing containers • Sweeping up crumbs and maintaining a clean house • Placing screens on vents and chimneys • Making repairs to cracks and holes in a home’s exterior • Keeping weather stripping around windows and doors in good repair • Storing firewood away from a home • Maintaining landscaping around a house and cutting it away from the walls • Using mice-repellent spray and electronic products