The bad news is that rats and mice cause millions of dollars in damage to property every year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, rodents spread 35 diseases that make people sick. The good news is that there is a lot a homeowner can do to prevent and eliminate rats and mice. If these tips do not help, please call a professional local rat exterminator. Do not ignore a rat or mouse in the house.
If left untreated, rodents reproduce rapidly.
Clean Up
Rats and mice love to find all kinds of hiding places. They avoid open spaces. Make it more uncomfortable for them by tidying up homes and yards. Rats and mice are great climbers and jumpers. Keep lawns mowed. Keep tree limbs cut back to three feet from the house. Eliminate leaf or brush piles. Fix any cracks in walls or around window frames and doorways. Mice can squeeze through holes as small as a quarter. Fill spaces around plumbing protruding from the house with caulk or copper mesh.
No Food Left Out
Mice and rats are champions at finding an easy meal. Never leave food on the floor unless it is in a can or metal container. Clean used dishes immediately. Never leave pet food sitting out overnight. Clean up all spillage from bird feeders daily.
Traps and Baits
The classic snap trap is excellent at killing mice and rats quickly. Baits take longer to work. Keep both away from children and pets.
