How To Catch A Mouse

Step 1: You will need

Step 2: Secure the area

Launch an initial two-pronged attack.
First, eliminate all food sources. Don't leave food out. Store it in air-tight containers.
Then seal up all entrances and exits.
A mouse can fit through a gap of just 1cm, so look for any holes that it could be using.

TOP TIP To stop mice from chewing their way back in, block holes with wire wool.

If the mouse can't get in, it won't be able to cause any more misery.

Step 3: Cats

A cat can help to keep an infestation down once it is under control, but it is not recommended as a sole solution. Most modern cats kill for fun rather than food, and can be extremely cruel to their prey; toying with it for hours before making a kill. You might find the transformation from moggy to murderer disturbing. If your cat does try to eat its kill, you should stop it as the mouse may carry parasites and have ingested poisons that it would then pass on.

And of course, there's always a chance that your cat won't be interested at all.

Step 4: Sonic deterrent

Another weapon that you have in your armoury is sound. Plug-in ultrasonic devices emit a high pitched sound, unbearable to all rodents.

Cats and dogs won't be able to hear it, but don't use one if you have a pet rodent such as a hamster.

TOP TIP Use a device that combines ultrasonic sound with electromagnetic interference
to protect your whole house as sound alone won't pass from room to room.

Step 5: Poisons

Man has invented plenty of ways of killing things, so if you're feeling ruthless, there are several options available. Poisons are available in several forms.
They are irresistible to mice and will kill them.

It's a good idea to use bait stations instead of trays, as these are enclosed and this prevents the poison from spilling and being accidentally consumed by pets and children.

Think like a mouse when positioning your bait stations and any traps.
Place them against walls, near their homes and food sources.
WARNING Always check your poison's instructions for specific safety tips.

One problem with poison is that it is not an instant killer. Dying mice may come out from their hiding places and die in front of you.
Or they will die in their hiding places, rot, and stink out your home.

Step 6: Non-humane traps

The quickest way to kill a mouse is to electrocute it with an electronic trap.

The traditional snap trap can also be effective but there is a risk that it will only maim the mouse rather than kill it instantly.

TOP TIP Many traps come ready-baited, but to give yours an extra kick, don't go for the obvious choice - add chocolate or peanut butter, both favourites amongst the mouse community.

Glue traps are the least humane. Once stuck, the mouse will either die a slow death or you will have to kill it yourself with a swift blow to the head.

Step 7: Humane traps

If you are of a gentler disposition, there are a wide variety of humane traps available,
from large multi-traps to single ones.

When you do catch a mouse, don't just release it in the garden.
It will be back before you know it.

Take it somewhere far away, where it can be happy, and you can too.