Mice may be cute little critters, but the truth is that having them in your home can be dangerous! Though they are small and may seem harmless, mice can cause significant damage and can put you and your family at risk in a variety of ways.
What makes mice dangerous?
Disease
A mouse infestation can put your health in jeopardy. Mice are capable of carrying and transmitting bacteria, viruses and diseases that can be incredibly hazardous to humans. They may contaminate food, which can be consumed by humans unknowingly, causing illness. Mouse urine contains allergens that may cause asthma and sinus inflammation in humans. Mice urine, feces and saliva can also transmit bacteria, viruses and diseases. If mouse excrement or droppings of any kind are spotted within your home, they should be disposed of carefully using gloves and a face mask and a pest control specialist should be called.
Damage
Mice can cause extensive damage to structures, furniture and personal belongings. Their constant gnawing can put holes in personal property and destroy furniture, and their nest-building habits can be incredibly destructive. A large-scale infestation can cause extensive structural damage to your home. Additionally, mice have no bladder control, causing them to trail urine wherever they walk, soiling carpets and floors. They leave behind substantial droppings daily, staining and contaminating household areas and materials.
Fire
Gnawing mice can cause significant damage to electrical wires and cords, increasing the risk of an electrical fire. Mice often crawl through walls and seek dark, hidden places to nest. As a result, they can easily access the wires running through the walls and ceilings of your home. Though this danger may be out of sight, it should not be out of mind! Chewed cords and broken wires caused by an infestation of mice can create a dangerous fire hazard in your home.
Household mice are not cause for extreme alarm. When eliminated properly and efficiently, mice pose a minimal threat. However, ignoring signs of a mouse infestation in your home can be very dangerous. If you suspect you have a mouse in your house, contact Nature’s Way Pest Control for a free consultation.