It is a fact that most homes around the United States will experience some kinds of infestation problems. And, 1/3 of that infestation is about rodents. As the fall approaches, more of these creatures will search for a warm house to stay until the winter comes, and they might even stay for good in their chosen warm place if they are not discovered. Rats and mice are not good companions to have. These rodents can cause serious damage to all kinds of structures as they will gnaw and eat anything they think is food. Homes, hotels, apartments, offices, retail businesses, manufacturing facilities, food processing, farms, and more are always in danger when these rodents show up in town. Aside from the damage that they create, these rodents serve as vectors for a variety of diseases. Salmonellosis, leptospirosis, and murine typhus are some of the diseases these rodents can transmit.

How to Prevent Rodents from Entering Your Home

Seal possible entryways

Rodents can easily squeeze through very small spaces. These rodents can enter ceilings or basements and go inside walls where they can create small spaces for them to enter homes. Make sure to seal any cracks or holes found inside and outside your home. Also, close vents, pipes or other holes where these pests can gain entry.

Check the foundation of the house

Rodents can gain entry through the basement’s foundation and through the windows. Replace weather stripping and make certain that small windows or vents do not have any gaps in them.

Use moderate landscaping

Dense plants and beautiful bushes in the garden may be lovely to see, but such places can attract pests. Rodents can take refuge in such places.  Make sure that trees do not touch the foundation of the home and avoid creating dense bushes.

Get rid of any clutter

It is normal for most homes to have an area where clutter is present.  The basement and attic are two of the most common places where clutter can be found. As much as possible, get rid of any clutter within these areas since these places can be the perfect breeding ground for these pests.

Clean your home

It is always a great habit to end your day, leaving the whole house clean. Make sure that the kitchen does not have any food debris, since the kitchen is the first place these rodents will look for food.

Take care of your home

The best defense to not having any of these rodents around is to continually monitor your home against them. Keeping the home clean inside and out is just one part of the job. Observing what your home needs will go a long way. For instance, regularly checking for cracks, fixing the plumbing and moisture when it is needed, getting rid of the clutter can save you from the headache of having rodents and even different pests around.

Get a cat

A good mousing cat can eat more than 1,000 mice per year. If you have a gifted cat, mice will not be attracted to enter your home as your cat will be your defense. When your cat catches a mouse, do not scold your pet for showing you their prey. Instead, encourage and praise your pet for doing a good job.

If you have seen signs of a potential rodent infestation inside your property, call Preventive Pest Control. For more information, visit Residential Rodent Control.