Rodent Control 101: What Attracts Rats and Mice?
Rats and mice are among the most common—and most unwelcome—household pests. They’re sneaky, fast breeders, and can pose serious health risks by spreading diseases and contaminating food. But have you ever wondered why rodents choose your home in the first place?: 1. Food: An All-You-Can-Eat Buffet Rodents have an incredible sense of smell and will travel surprisingly far to find a meal. If food is accessible, your home becomes a permanent dining spot. Rodent Attractors: Crumbs on floors or countertops Unsealed food in pantries Pet food left out overnight Overflowing trash or compost bins Prevention Tips: Store food in airtight containers Clean kitchen surfaces daily Sweep or vacuum floors regularly Use tightly sealed trash cans 2. Shelter: Warmth and Safety As the temperature drops, your home becomes a cozy refuge for rodents looking to escape the cold. Ideal Rodent Shelters: Cluttered attics and basements Insulated wall cavities Under sinks and kitchen appliances Garages or sheds with open access Prevention Tips: Keep storage areas tidy and elevated off the floor Seal gaps in walls, around pipes, and under doors Install door sweeps and weather stripping Regularly inspect dark or unused areas 3. Water: A Hidden Necessity Rodents need water just like any other animal. Leaky pipes or moist areas provide perfect hydration sources. Common Water Sources: Leaky faucets or pipes under the sink Pet water bowls Condensation from appliances Open toilets or drains Prevention Tips: Fix plumbing leaks promptly Avoid leaving water bowls out overnight Use dehumidifiers in damp areas 4. Entry Points: Open Doors for Unwanted Guests Rodents can squeeze through holes as small as a dime (mice) or a quarter (rats). If there’s a way in, they’ll find it. Where Rodents Get In: Gaps under doors or garage doors Cracks in foundations or walls Open vents or chimneys Uncovered drains or pipes Prevention Tips: Seal cracks with steel wool or caulk Install mesh covers over vents Repair broken screens and door seals Close garage doors when not in use 5. Outdoor Conditions: Overgrown and Inviting Your yard could be inviting rodents even before they reach your front door. Outdoor Attractors: Overgrown shrubs and bushes near the house Woodpiles stacked against walls Bird feeders spilling seeds Uncovered compost piles Prevention Tips: Keep vegetation trimmed and away from the house Store firewood at least 20 feet away Use rodent-proof compost bins Avoid leaving pet food outside