While mice and rats might look cute in your backyard or behind the glass in a pet store, rodent control is important to keep your family and home safe from wild critters. Rats and mice combined can spread more than 35 diseases through direct contact or indirect contact through infected ticks or mites. Consider the below pest management tips, and always disinfect any areas that have come into contact with the rodents. 

3 Effective Methods for Rodent Control 

1. Seal Food Tight 

For indoor rodent control, store leftovers and pet food in air-tight plastic or metal containers. Sweep and wipe counters regularly to avoid excess crumbs. When outside, keep trash containers covered, and pick any garden produce as soon as it’s ripe. Make sure grills or outdoor cooking equipment is free of grease and oil when not in use. 

2. Block Up Holes 

Mice can fit into nickel-sized holes, and rats can get through holes as small as a half-dollar coin. Fill small holes and cracks around your home with steel wool, caulk, or cement. Inspect doorways, windows, basements, attics, and vents or furnaces. Large cracks can be sealed with weather stripping.  

3. Use Peppermint 

Peppermint is a natural form of rodent control. It will not remove current inhabitants, but it will repel future invaders. Plant peppermint around the perimeter of your house, or douse cotton balls in peppermint oil. Place the cotton balls in possible points of entry and reapply the oil every month. If you have pets, check with your veterinarian before applying the oil, as it can be harmful to some animals. 

If you need to increase your rodent control efforts, let Cox Termite & Pest Control help. They provide environmentally friendly pest management solutions to the Savannah, GA, area. Whether you need one-time treatment, 90-day services, or monthly visits, they provide effective solutions backed by a trusted reputation. Learn more about their pest control options online, or call (912) 236-2503 to schedule a complimentary inspection.