Mice and rats; these rodents so cute and disgusting at the same time. As professional exterminators and pest managers, we frequently receive questions about these animals and infestations. Here’s a topo of these most popular questions.
- Do mice really carry disease?
- Do mice live in colonies?
- Rats, mice and mules belong to which family?
- What do rodents eat?
- How do I use repellents?
- Infestation and real estate: are the damage caused by mice hidden defects?
- Can you caulk your house to keep rodents away?
- Do rats really live in the sewers?
- What kind of damage are rodents capable of?
- Are they more attracted to dirty homes?
- How do I identify an infestation?
- Why are mice so child-friendly and so detestable to parents?
- How fast does the animal reproduce?
- What is the life expectancy of a mouse?
- Do mice bite?
- What is the minimum size for a mouse to break in?
- Do ultrasounds affect mice?
- Are there any natural repellents against mice?
- What is a smoke test for?
Do mice really carry disease?
True, mice and other rodents carry diseasesthat can be dangerous to humans and their pets. These animals are known to carry diseases such as:
- Leptospirosis,
- Salmonellosis,
- Haverhill Fever,
- Tularemia,
- Meningitis,
- Lonely worms,
- Jaundice,
- The bubonic plague,
- The hanta virus
These diseases are very serious for humans, as well as for their pets. For example, hanta viruses attacking the lung system. Just like other viruses and diseases, the symptoms are unpleasant and, even, suffering, to be taken very seriously. In the case of the hanta virus, for example, it is a deadly virus.
They transmit his diseases through their feces and urine, left here and there in your home, as well as by their bite and scratch. You can also catch one of the viruses if you touch the dead animal. Don’t take unnecessary risks and contact an experienced exterminator. He knows the technique to apply to get rid of the corpse or the species.
Do mice live in colonies?
Yes, mice (just like rats) live in colonies,up to hundreds of individuals. Therefore, if you see one of these “cheese eaters” in your home, remember that he is not alone. It’s best to use a professional exterminator to solve your invasion problem.
Rats, mice and mules belong to which family?
These rodent mammals belong to the Muridfamily. Also from this family come hamsters, moles, house mice and giant rats.
What do rodents eat?
Small rodents are omnivorous. They are not difficult and feed on what they find in your home… especially in your pantry. Every accessible food is a treat! Vegetables, fruits, vegetables, seeds, biscuits in sachets, waste… and of course, cheese!
How do I use repellents?
Many products, repellents and pesticides against pests, are over-the-counter on the market. These include chemicals or animal traps and traps. For each of these techniques, we recommend to be well vigilant when using.
First, chemicals are toxic. Be careful when handling them, as they can harm your health, as well as those of your children and pets.
When it comes to traps and traps, be aware that you will find trapped, injured and dead animals. Be sure to check regularly for small animals to be there, to avoid unpleasant odours or for too long.
Infestation and real estate: are the damage caused by mice hidden defects?
Be aware that, during a property sale, you must report to your potential buyer if there has been an infestation of pests(ants,rodents, etc.) in the home, when and if an extermination professional intervened. Otherwise, the damage caused will be considered a hidden defect. The pre-purchase inspector checks for potential entry for pests and assesses potential damage caused by rodents.
In the event of an infestation, talk to a professional, as this may have an impact you don’t think about.
Can you caulk your house to keep rodents away?
Did you know that an opening as small as a 10 cent is enough for an unwanted visitor to enter your home? When the head passes, the rest of the body can pass too. To prevent an infestation, check that the caulking of the doors and windows is in good condition. Close the openings, even if they seem unimportant to you.
Do rats really live in the sewers?
As disgusting as it sounds, yes, rats live well in the sewers. But not just in the sewers! They 
also enjoy green spaces and parks, as well as the warmth of your home.
So, before you ask yourself, yes, they may well enter your home by the toilet!
What kind of damage do rodents do?
Rats and mice are dirty animals. They leave feces and urine all over your home, including the pantry, where there may be contact with your groceries.
These animals are known for gnawing on furniture, wood (e.g. door frames), insulating foam, cables and electrical wires… In some cases, rodents have caused damage, to buildings, quite large, imposing major bids and renovations.
Are rodents more attracted to dirty homes?
With the arrival of autumn and cold, rodents are attracted, first and foremost, by the warmth of our homes. And not by dirt!
On the other hand, a crowded property offers many hiding places and entry points for small animals. If the food is easily accessible in addition, it’s even better!
Take a few precautions:
- Avoid leaving food crumbs and make sure your groceries are in airtight pots.
- Keep your wooden ropes away from your home.
- As mentioned above, well caulk and plug possible openings.
- Keep your living space clean.
Contact us; we can recommend ways to prevent a potential pest infestation.
How do I identify an infestation?
Do you hear any noises in the walls? Do you find damaged items? Are your supplies disappearing? No, you are (probably) not going crazy, but are instead being invaded by small rodents.
Pay attention to noises, bitten goods, and gnawed foods, as they surely indicate the presence of these undesirables. You may also find traces of urine and feces. At the first appearances, contact your exterminator. Keep in mind that these animals live in colonies and cause damage to your property and property.
Why are mice so child-friendly and detestable to parents?
Mickey and Minie Mouse, Ratatouille, Jaq and Gus (Cinderella), Itchy (The Simpsons), Fievel (Fievel in the Wild West), Splinter (The Ninja Turtles)… Rodents inspire the creators of cartoons and fantastic tales, making these creatures so friendly and cute in the eyes of children. While they represent a nightmare for many adults.
Aware of the risks, damage and potential dangers, the majority of adults are not enchanted by the presence of rodents at home. Some even have a fear, even obsessive, called musophobia. This phobia causes exaggerated anxiety, nightmares and even panic attacks.
How fast does the animal reproduce?
Mice mate all year round, although an increase in breeding is observed during the summer and spring. They can have up to 15 litters per year and give birth to up to 18 mice per litter. Six to ten weeks after their birth, these mice are sexually mature, ready to mate.
Rats reproduce just as quickly.
What is the life expectancy?
The mouse, like the rat, lives two to three years.
Considering the speed of reproduction, in time and number, as well as their lifespan, do not wait for these animals to die of old age before intervening.
Do mice bite?
Yes, mice, like rats, bite. If you get bitten by this animal, remember to clean the wound and disinfect the wound with an antiseptic.
However, we recommend that you consult your doctor after a bite. You may have contracted an illness, as mentioned above, or may need stitches.
What is the minimum size for a mouse to break in?
The mouse is agile and very small. It only needs an opening the size of a dro cent to break into your home.
Do ultrasounds affect these small rodents?
Ultrasound repellents have the advantage of keeping rodents away, without killing them or manipulating them. However, mice and rats have a great ability to adapt. They may therefore get used to the noises and eventually come back. Read the ultrasonic anti-mouse traps
Are there any natural repellents?
Yes, there are natural repellents against mice and other rodents. The essence of eucalyptus and peppermint, by their strong smell, are known to keep these animals away from your home. However, given their strong adaptability, it is better to combine these methods with another strategy to solve the problem.
Moreover, not all cats hunt mice.
