How to Deter Mice

Mice infestations in homes can cause more problems than just startling occupants in the middle of the night. Mice carry diseases and can cause health problems such as tapeworms, ringworm, Lyme disease, and food poisoning. Mice are responsible for the hanta virus. Fleas on mice caused the bubonic plague.

Mice are also notorious chewers, and gnaw on everything. They can damage electrical wiring, which can result in a fire. They may also damage insulation, furniture, and appliances. In short, mice infestations can cause fires, damage to your home, and create costly repairs.

Mice can produce about ten litters a year, with each litter containing about six baby mice. So even two mice can have about sixty babies in a year. Since it only takes six weeks for mice to become mature enough to reproduce, those sixty-two mice will increase in numbers exponentially.

Sometimes you may have a mice infestation without realizing it because they are active at night. An obvious sign is mouse droppings, which are usually found around food areas. Less obvious signs are holes in cabinets and around baseboards. A hole as small as a pencil diameter is big enough for a mouse to fit.

The first step to get rid of mice is prevention. The rodents are attracted to plentiful food and water. You must be persistent about keeping these items inaccessible to the rodents.

Keep all food items in glass jars, in metal tins, and in storage containers that are airtight. Plastic containers may or may not work. I know of an instance where rodents had chewed through the plastic lid on a jar of peanut butter. If there is room, put as many food items as possible in the refrigerator. Make room in the refrigerator especially for foods that are difficult to fit into secure containers.

Empty pet food dishes at night. Don't forget to put any pet foods in a sealed container, like a hard plastic tote or tightly sealed trash can. Never leave it stored out in the open in its original bag.