Mice are some of the most common pests that find their way into our homes, and their presence is a source of stress for many homeowners. From disease to property damage, these invaders bring nothing but trouble.
It is essential to act swiftly and find ways to remedy the situation to avoid further problems. Here are some tips to prevent mice from entering your San Antonio property.
What Attracts Mice Into Your Home?
Knowing what attracts mice is crucial to avoid infestations.
Food
The most alluring of all attractions is food. Some potential food sources for mice include grains, fruits, seeds, pet food, garbage and compost bins, food crumbs, and bird feeders.
Water
Mice can go quite a while without water, but need it to survive. Pet bowls, leaking sprinklers, water in drains, and dripping pipes all serve as potential water sources for mice.
Warmth and Comfort
Just like humans, mice seek warm homes in cold weather. Seldom used spots hidden from sight are the perfect choice for mice to nest in when temperatures drop.
Problems Caused by Mice
While they may seem cute, mice can put your health at risk and cause significant problems for your home.
Health Risks
Mice can spread potentially life-threatening diseases like salmonella and hantavirus, which can be a severe threat to humans.
Their saliva, urine, and feces contain harmful bacteria and viruses that might make people and pets ill. Fleas and ticks that live on mice can transmit illnesses to humans, such as Lyme disease.
Property Damage
Mice will scratch and chew through anything to keep their front teeth honed. They can cause extensive damage as they gnaw on furniture, food packages, drywall, PVC pipes, and electrical wiring.
Also, their excrement and urine may soak through floors and ceilings if not addressed, resulting in costly property damage.
How to Avoid Mice in San Antonio
Here are some tips to keep indoor and outdoor areas clean to avoid mice in San Antonio:
Maintain Cleanliness to Eliminate Food Sources
If you keep your home clean, mice will be less likely to invade. Keep your kitchen, dining, and outdoor eating areas clean and free of food spills and crumbs.
Keep trash cans clean and closed with tightly sealed lids. Store all food, including pet food, in tightly sealed containers that rodents can’t access.
Lastly, remove outdoor food sources such as bird feeders and fallen vegetation from your garden.
Clear Out Potential Hiding Spots
Eliminate potential mouse hiding spots around your foundation to repel them. Clear any debris, clutter, and garbage from inside your home and around your yard.
Get rid of dense vegetation by trimming the grass, shrubs, tall weeds, and foliage, as they all make great hiding spots for mice.
Get Rid of Water Sources
Mice are small, so small amounts of water attract them. Fix any leaking pipes, drainage issues, or other areas where water accumulates. Avoid leaving pet water bowls and birdbaths with standing water.
Do Not Let Them Enter
Mice are able to squeeze through even the smallest cracks and crevices. Eliminate any potential access by sealing any holes, gaps, cracks, or other entry points on your exterior to keep them out. Consider adopting a cat or a dog to deter mice.
Call the Pros
If you eliminate major attractants and follow the steps above, mice will avoid your home. If they persist, be sure to seek help from a pest control professional to eliminate a mouse infestation.
Call Romney’s Pest Control for prompt, dependable, and guaranteed mice control and prevention.
