Have you ever heard the expression “it’s easier to keep up than to catch up?” Typically this refers to falling behind on finances, homework, and other day-to-day scenarios.
However, the same notion applies to rodent infestations. It’s easier to prevent rodents from coming into your home and taking over than getting rid of them once they have.
We’re here to help you do just that. Keep reading for everything you need to know about how a rodent infestation comes into being and how to prevent it.
Easy Access Into Your Home
First, understand that most animals take the path of least resistance. That’s why trappers have been able to predictably trap and ensnare wildlife of all shapes, sizes, and species for thousands of years. They simply lay their traps on game paths or create obstructions to lead them to their hidden trap.
When it comes to a rat or mouse finding their way into your home, they’re likely doing it via existing entrances such as holes, gaps, and cracks in your foundation, walls, or doors. Use things like silicone and steel wool to seal up any potential access points into your home.
Read this post for more information on the common types of house rodents and how to prevent them.
Available Food and Water Sources
Another way to control or prevent a rodent infestation is by limiting the food and water available to these pests. Rodents are drawn to food, such as crumbs on the floor, open food packages in the cupboard, unsealed pet food, and unsealed garbage cans.
Limit these food sources to ensure you’re not advertising an “open for business” sign to rodents and other pests. You should also make sure there are no places in or near your home that has standing water.
Shelter
Next, remember that animals also need shelter to survive. It keeps them safe from the elements and natural predators. A shelter can be several things for a rodent infestation, such as:
- Unkempt weeds and vegetation
- Wood or rubbish stacks near the house
- Piles of old clothing in storage
- Storage boxes
- The interior of walls
- Clutter
- And more
The key is removing all possible shelters that could lure mice or rats to your home. Once they’ve found shelter, they will start reproducing.
Immediate Action
Finally, you can prevent a rodent infestation by taking action as soon as you see signs of mice or other rodents in your home. Common signs of mice include scratching sounds behind walls, odors, visual signs of waste, and actual rodent sightings.
Unfortunately, six mice can become 60 in a quarter of a year. The longer you allow mice to live in your home, the more they’ll reproduce, and the more damage they’ll cause.
Want to Prevent a Rodent Infestation?
There’s nothing worse than finding out you’re unwillingly sharing your home with uninvited guests. Fortunately, preventing a rodent infestation is relatively simple, as is remediating a pest presence.
However, if you’re looking for other home ownership advice, be sure to check out some of our other articles before you go. Our blog was created to help homeowners just like you make the most out of their spaces.
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