Early Signs of Mice in Your House You Shouldn’t Ignore

Mice tend to be small and fast, making them a tough target to spot outright. But they do leave visible traces. One of the most common early indications are droppings, which are often discovered in and around food storage locations, along walls, or under sinks. You may also find chewed bites in food packaging, wire, or even furniture because mice have to constantly gnaw to whittle down their teeth.

And there’s another telling factor: noise, particularly at night. Noises like scratching, scurrying or squeaking emanating from your walls, ceiling or behind the cupboards—or hearing them in the first place— indicate potential rodent movement. A musty or stale smell can also arise in regions with mouse inhabitants. Others spy greasy smudges where mice have rubbed against walls or floorboards, spreading the oils from their fur as they take the same paths over and over.

If you ever do see any of these signs, be sure to take action quickly before a minor problem becomes an infestation. Sealing points of entry, keeping food stored in airtight containers and setting traps are good first moves. More severe infestations should be handled by a pest control professional. Know the early warning signs of mice around your house so that you can avoid the time, money and stress of a full blown rodent infestation.