Dealing with a mouse infestation in your yard can be extremely frustrating. The constant sound of their scurrying and discovering their droppings can drive you to seek a resolution. While many people resort to using mouse poisons or spring traps, this is not a viable option for those with pets. These methods can be dangerous to curious animals and cause harm. So, what can you do to get rid of mice in yard without harming pets? Keep reading to find out.
How to get rid of mice in yard without harming pets
If you have mice in your yard at the moment, they will be gone by the time you implement these tips to get rid of mice in yard without harming pets:
1. Repel with peppermint oil
Peppermint oil is a highly deterrent scent for mice. Simply soak a cotton ball in a few drops of the oil and rub it along the baseboards in the yard. To enhance the effect, add more oil to additional cotton balls and place them in the corners since mice love walking by surfaces to evade predators, coupled with their poor vision. Findings show that mice view the world at extremely low resolution.
Alternatively, you can consider using cinnamon and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle these spices around your house, being mindful to place them in areas that are inaccessible to your dogs and cats, as cinnamon and pepper can irritate their eyes and mucous membranes.
2. Use camphor repellent
Peppermint is more appealing to mice senses compared to camphor, so it’s best to avoid using it in frequently used areas toward your yard to get rid of mice in yard without harming pets.
However, an effective method to get rid of mice in yard without harming pets is to fill an old sock with mothballs and place it near vents or windows in areas such as the shed. To ensure safety, it’s advisable to hang the socks out of reach of children.
3. Keep kitty litter handy
This option is a perfectly suitable option for outdoor use, and the scent of used cat litter is a clear indication to mice that a cat is present in the vicinity. A sock filled with litter in your yard can effectively remove mice in yard without harming pets.
If you don’t own a cat, consider asking a feline-loving friend to spare some litter for this purpose.
4. Instant mashed potatoes eliminate mice
Seriously, a small container of potato flakes is all you need to get rid of mice in yard without harming pets. Once mice eat the potato flakes, they will expand in their stomachs causing discomfort before they can be fully digested. However, this method may not be suitable for households with pets.
5. Rodent bait station work
Rodent bait stations will eliminate mice instead of simply deterring them. Bait stations, however, are a safe option for households with pets as they contain the poison or bait, keeping it inaccessible to both curious animals. These stations can be placed in the yard or, if the mice follow a specific route, attached to a roof or fence using zip ties.
6. Set live traps
An alternative to snap traps that is both humane and safe for pets is the use of live traps. Live traps come in various shapes and sizes and are typically constructed of clear plastic or metal, featuring a lid that can be opened to release the trapped mouse. Release the mouse at least one mile from your home to prevent it from coming back.
7. Place ultrasonic emitters in your yard
To address the contemporary issues posed by mice, ultrasonic emitters provide a modern solution. These compact devices emit ultrasonic soundwaves that effectively repel mice and other pests. The emitted noise is so loud and unpleasant for the mice that they will vacate the area.
Ultrasonic soundwaves are at a frequency that is inaudible to humans and pets, making them a safe solution. However, it is not uncommon for mice to become acclimated to the sound over time, especially in cases of severe infestations. For this reason, it is recommended to use ultrasonic emitters in conjunction with other methods for optimal results.
8. Set up electrical traps
Another safe way to get rid of mice in yard without harming pets is the use of electronic traps. These traps use an electric current to kill mice instantly when they enter the trap and are pet-friendly. The advantage of electronic mouse traps is that they are compact and enclosed, preventing any risk of harm to cats or dogs.
How do you know if you have a yard mouse infestation?
Do you suspect that you might have mice in your house? Here are some indications that could suggest their presence.
1. Mouse droppings
One of the most obvious signs of a mouse infestation is the presence of droppings in your yard. Mouse droppings are quite small, measuring only 1/4 inch, and are typically found in groups at the bottom of drawers or cabinets.
2. Property damage
Small tooth marks on exterior properties kept in the yard can be a clear indication of a mouse problem. Mice frequently gnaw holes into cereal and pasta boxes to access their contents.
Some mice can be particularly persistent and will even chew through walls and furniture in search of food or to create a nesting area.
3. Live mouse sightings
Spotting a mouse is a clear indication of their presence, however, it’s uncommon for individuals with mouse infestations to actually see the rodents.
Mice are skilled at staying hidden and tend to come out only at night. Keep in mind that you may still have a mouse problem, even if you haven’t seen them.
4. Strange noise
Although mice are small in size, they can create a significant amount of noise. You might hear sounds such as scratching, gnawing, or squeaking coming from your walls.
5. Mice nests
Similar to birds and squirrels, mice construct nests for their offspring. They are resourceful creatures and will utilize a variety of materials for their nests, including straw, pine needles, cushion stuffing, and insulation.
Although the specific building materials may vary based on what’s available, you can easily identify a mouse nest as it resembles a bird’s nest.
6. Tracks and grease stain
Mouse droppings are not the only evidence of their presence. Other signs include tracks, grease marks, and runways. Runways are pathways of grease, feces, and urine that are left behind by mice and are often found on walls and floors. In severe infestations, these markings can be highly visible.
7. Musky smell
Mice have a distinct, unpleasant odor. Their gland secretions and urine can leave a strong scent in your home. If you detect a strange smell in your house and can’t determine the source, it could be a sign of a mouse infestation.
Final thoughts – mice in yard without harming pets
If you have a mouse infestation, it’s also important to reorganize your yard and remove all clutters that could be serving as nesting spots for mice. Do not think twice about calling professional pest control to resolve your mice problem if you suspect a bad infestation.
