While some people might assume that mice aren't that big of a problem given their small size, they are very destructive and dangerous pests. They are also an extremely common household problem in the Opelika area.
Mice are often confused with rats because they look rather similar and also act in similar ways. However, they are two different species, and you're unlikely to have an infestation of both at the same time. In general, mice can be identified by their big ears in proportion to their bodies and their long, thin tails, and they are grey or brown.
While you'll rarely see mice, there are some other signs of an infestation you might pick up on first if you know what to look for. Here are the most common signs of a mouse infestation.
- Finding small rodent tracks
- Finding rod-shaped mouse droppings
- Gnaw marks on plastic or furniture
- A scurrying sound coming from inside of walls
- Pets acting strangely
- Urine odors
- Small holes that have been chewed open
Problems Mice Can Cause
Mice and other rodents are generally viewed as unsanitary, but an infestation can pose many more problems than most know. They are a two-fold problem because they can cause property damage as well as health problems.
First of all, mice have the need to constantly gnaw. This habit means they often chew on and damage many things including electrical wires, pipes, plastic, furniture, and drywall. The destruction they cause can end up costing homeowners a lot of money.
Second, mice pose many health threats, and some of these can be quite serious. Mice are known to:
- Carry many diseases including hantavirus and salmonella
- Trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions
- Cause respiratory problems when their feces starts to build up in walls
- Carry parasites
- Their droppings and fur can make people sick
Third, mice are a problem because they are hard to control. They are very prolific and can reproduce quickly. Their numbers can soon grow out of control despite your best efforts to handle the infestation.
What Are Some Ways To Prevent Mice?
Because of the many issues that mice can cause for you and your family, taking steps to protect your Opelika home can go a long way. While prevention methods aren't always effective, they still can reduce the risk.
Here are some mouse prevention steps:
- Store food, including pet food, in airtight containers.
- Regularly clean kitchen areas.
- Clean up food and drink spills.
- Take out the trash often.
- Seal up entry points by fixing broken screens.
- Place caulk in holes and cracks in walls.
The Best In Mice Prevention And Control
It's clear that mice are not just a nuisance pest and that if you have an infestation, it isn't something you want to leave unchecked. However, because mice are so difficult to prevent and remove, the best way to deal with these rodents is to get help from the experts at Prewett Pest Control. We have the expertise and experience to help you prevent rodent infestations and remove any current ones.
With affordable, flexible, and convenient options, we are able to take care of your pest control needs and protect you and your family from dangerous species such as mice and other rodents. For more advice and assistance, or to learn about mice control options, contact us by phone or online.