Mice are known to spread many nasty diseases such as Salmonella and Listeria – but there are ways to deter them from your home, according to a pest expert
Dealing with a mouse infestation is one of the most distressing household issues, and it’s crucial to understand how to effectively handle it to prevent recurrence. Pest experts at Archers Pest Control shared some advice on their blog, stating: “Mice are known to spread many nasty diseases such as Salmonella and Listeria – to humans through their urine, faeces, and bedding.”
They added: “As they scurry around, they carry bacteria and dirt with them, transferring them directly to your countertops, cupboards and anywhere else they travel.” The fact that mice have a tendency to gnaw through wires also presents a serious fire risk. The problem is that mice are nocturnal, so sightings are rare. However, they do leave several signs that suggest you might have a mouse issue. Mouse droppings – black, rice-shaped pellets – are the most obvious indicators. These are usually found near walls, baseboards, or holes at floor level, reports the Express.
You might also notice gnaw marks on your furniture. The team at Archers Pest Control cautioned that an unusual smell where mice might be nesting is a common sign of an infestation. Mice have very oily fur so one of the things to look for is smear marks along the walls and skirting boards of your property. Also, keep a nose for any odd odours. Mouse urine and droppings leave behind a very strong scent”, they said.
The article warns that superficial checks aren’t enough when inspecting for damages that can be caused by mice. It advises a thorough examination beyond the surface, such as underneath kitchen or bathroom cabinets and behind domestic appliances like fridges, stoves, and washing machines.
Bringing some relief to homeowners, the article shares that mice rarely venture further than 10 to 30 feet from their nests, which makes addressing problem areas somewhat simpler than expected. When it comes to deterring these pesky rodents, experts underscore that mice can squeeze through gaps as small as a quarter-inch to get inside homes.
To prevent new mice from coming in, specialists suggest sealing all possible entry points thoroughly. Homeowners should inspect for any foundation cracks, holes in walls, or spaces between doors and floors since these can often provide easy access for mice. It is also critical to scrutinize any openings around plumbing, vents, and ensure windows and doors shut tightly, as mice are agile enough to enter through pen-sized holes.
Given rodents’ lack of dietary discernment and their attraction to human food, experts stress the importance of maintaining cleanliness, securely storing edibles, and considering humane trapping options for those preferring not to harm the animals. Specifically, House Method experts recommended: “Plastic or metal box traps are designed to catch mice without harming them. Typically, you place a bait, such as peanut butter, in the box trap, set it, and wait for a mouse to be caught.”
Once you’ve nabbed the little critter, it’s crucial to release it at least a mile away from your home to stop it from scurrying back”. This trap is more appropriate for the odd mouse that sneaks into your house, rather than dealing with a full-blown infestation.