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And before you know it, you will soon have a mice infestation because mice are heavy breeders! Your first thought will be to call an exterminator such as Smith’s Pest Management, but as you imagine the helpless faces of your new unwanted guests, you ponder if there is a more humane solution. The answer is, yes! Today, we will be discussing 3 humane ways to get rid of mice and rats in your home which also includes some prevention methods. But first, let’s get to know a little bit more about these tiny little critters.

Why You Should be Worried if You Think you Might Have a Rat Infestation

They are Heavy Breeders

Once you encounter even one of these cute but annoying critters, you should already look into rat-proofing your home because it can go from just one to a whole nest of them! Female mice can become pregnant even when they are just two months mature and each time giving birth to at least 15 at a time.

They Can Spread Diseases

Don’t let the size and cuteness of your new guests fool you. Having a mice infestation is no joke, as it can have detrimental effects on you and your family’s health. Viruses such as the Hantavirus, Salmonellosis, and Listeria can arise from the spread of their droppings, urine, saliva, and other nesting materials. As soon as you see any evidence that mice have been all over your things (visible droppings/discoloration/bite marks), it is advisable to dispose of them to prevent anyone in your home from catching any of these diseases. Diseases aside, would you be OK with finding mice droppings all over your things?

They Chew Everything (especially wires)

Besides diseases, another reason why you should get rid of your unwanted guests is that they will chew everything! Mice love chewing on things and this becomes dangerous when they have a full buffet of your household’s electrical wiring! You might not even know the extent of your damage as your wiring is located in between the walls or in the attic.

Humane Ways to Get Rid of Mice and Rats

Non-lethal Mouse Traps – Catch and Release

Build a non-lethal mousetrap by baiting them into an enclosure where they won’t be able to climb out again. For the bait, mice are known to have a sweet tooth so you can use pieces of chocolate, peanut butter, or cookie crumbs to entice them. Put your non-lethal traps in areas where you think the mice might be nesting. You should be able to tell by their droppings or other rodent activity. Once it’s time for release, travel at least half a mile away from your home or they’ll find their way back! Of course, this method won’t work if you are already dealing with a full-blown infestation. It will also take more time and effort than just using poison. Alternatively, you can also turn to pest control companies to get rid of mice fast.

Mouse-Proof Your Home

At the same time that you are working on getting the mice out, you must also ensure that you mouse-proof your home to keep them from coming back! Infestations usually occur during the colder seasons as your home becomes a nice and warm place for them to nest. They also have plenty of food to eat! Here are some ways to effectively mouse-proof your home.

•         Seal all holes and gaps with durable materials such as steel or sheet metal. Since mice are really tiny, ensure you do not miss out on any openings.
•         Seal all window frames and doors with weather stripping seals.
•         Place your trash cans further away from your home.
•         Cut down any tree branches that the mice can use as an entry to your home.
•         Mice will build their nests in old boxes and also anything soft so be sure to eliminate these.

Mouse Repellent

Now that you’re working on getting the mice out and keeping them out, using natural repellents will further strengthen your humane ‘extermination’. Mice have a great sense of smell and they especially can’t stand spicy scents such as garlic, cayenne pepper, and even peppermint! Understandably most house owners will go for peppermint as it will also keep your home smelling minty fresh and is safe to use with children and pets around. It is also less messy as all you need is some peppermint essential oil and cotton balls. Soak the cotton balls up and place them in areas around your home. Lastly, you must always keep your home clean. Don’t leave any food out or anything that mice possibly use to build a nest. Prevention is always better. But if it’s too late, humane pest control solutions should be your first option as it will not only be better for the mice but also a less toxic solution for yourself and your family.