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Do-It-Yourself Rodent Control Mistakes

Mouse trap with cheese.

Solving Rodent Problems Can Cause a Whole Lot of Others

Few things are more disturbing than finding a live mouse, rat or other rodent inside your home, garage or outbuildings. Even if they’re just poking around in your lawn or garden, rodents are still unwelcome intruders into your little slice of heaven. Unfortunately, taking matters into your own hands and attempting a DIY rodent control fix might backfire. Avoid these DIY rodent control mistakes—and don’t be afraid to call in the experts for more help.

Putting Traps in the Middle of the Room

Although it seems logical to put mouse and rat traps in a highly visible location like the center of a room, that might actually be the worst place to locate them. This is due to the fact that rats and mice tend to stick close to walls and corners, using them to escape detection by house pets and humans. Placing traps close to walls and behind furniture is a better strategy.

Overloading the Trap

Overloading a trap can actually cause the device to malfunction, allowing critters to get at the bait without becoming ensnared. It’s important to remember that rats and mice are much smaller than humans and have proportional appetites. A small bit of cheese or strip of peanut butter should be enough to attract them.

Using Dangerous Substances

It’s important not to endanger your children, pets or spouse in your quest to rid your home of rodents. Using poisons can do more harm than good—especially if you have a curious cat or dog in the house. Calling a rodent removal expert is less risky and a more humane way to handle a rodent problem.

Attempting Punitive Measures

It might be satisfying to run after a mouse or rat with a broom, baseball bat or other weapon, but you’re likely to regret such impulsive behavior. Despite their small size, rodents are surprisingly fast and agile. It’s much harder to incapacitate a critter with a weapon than Saturday morning cartoons might lead you to believe. Attempting to physically confront rodents often damages your floors, walls and furniture without addressing the problem.

Learn More About Rodents and Rodent Control in Phoenix and Tucson

Even if you’ve never made a DIY rodent control mistake, you might not have the time or inclination to handle pest problems on your own. That’s no problem! It’s a busy world out there, and you’ve got plenty of other things to worry about. We’re happy to shoulder the responsibility of protecting your home from pesky critters and ensuring that your family lives in peace and safety. For more information, give us a call or request a quote.