How to Get Rid of Mice When You Have Pets
No one wants to have a furry intruder in their home – especially if they share their home with a pet. Luckily, there are several effective measures you can take to get rid of mice without having to endanger your pet’s safety.
Set Traps
Setting mouse traps can be one of the easiest and most effective ways to get rid of a mouse in your home. When you have pets, it’s important to choose a humane trap that doesn’t use poison or have anywhere for the mouse to get its limbs stuck in. Examples of humane traps include:
- Poisonless traps – These traps capture mice without using any type of poison. Generally, they are made of plastic or metal and will have a bait inside that attracts the mouse.
- Live catch traps – These traps will catch a mouse alive and are often constructed of wood. Once the mouse is trapped, you can release it outside without harming your pet.
Use Natural Repellents
If you want to repel the mice, using a natural repellent such as peppermint oil is an effective solution. You can place drops of the oil around your home, on shelves, and in areas where mice are likely to enter. Be sure to frequently check and replace the oil, as the scent will fade over time.
Alternatively, you can purchase ultrasonic repellents that emit high-frequency sound waves. These are completely harmless to pets, but effective in deterring mice from your home.
Prevent Future Entries
Once the mice are gone, it’s important to take preventative measures to ensure that they don’t return in the future. Start by searching for any possible entry points around your home, such as cracks in the walls, unsealed windows, and holes in the roof or ceiling. Fill or repair any holes or cracks that you find.
Next, make sure that there are no attractive sources of food or water present. Keep pet food bowls in a sealed container and wipe down counter tops; take out the trash regularly, and never leave on lights when the house is empty.
By taking these preventative measures, you can enjoy peace of mind that your home is safe from any future rodent intruders.