Mice are persistent little creatures who can contort and squeeze through tight spaces. Examine your walls for any cracks or holes, and seal them up as you discover them. Also look behind the refrigerator and cabinets, around the fireplace, and under the washing machine and any sinks. Caulking is effective for closing entryways, but larger holes may require some heftier measures such as metal sheeting or cement. Also be sure that window screens are intact and there aren’t major gaps around doorways.
If you have areas above or below your house (like an attic or crawlspace), make sure to keep them clean and well-maintained. They can make a perfect hiding place for rodents, and once they’ve established themselves, they can start to reproduce quickly. Keeping these areas clear will prohibit that from happening.
All pests are constantly on the hunt for food, and it’s your food that usually draws them into your home. Store leftovers quickly and keep all food in airtight containers.
Your garbage is full of old and unfinished food, as well as food particles, making it a very attractive spot for rodents. Take out the trash daily and make sure your garbage cans are always closed.
If you have pets in the house, don’t leave their food out for long periods; instead, limit it to specific feeding times. Your dog may want to wander over to munch on some dog food later – but a mouse or rat may have the same idea!
If you have tall trees on your property, don’t allow their branches to hang over the roof. Not only is this a possible danger to your shingles, it also gives rodents a pathway directly onto your roof, which they can use to find their way inside the house.