We all know that cats are natural hunters and most will chase anything that looks like a mouse’s tail. However, even the best feline predator cannot protect an entire house from these rodents.
Not All Cats Are Hunters
Although some cats are avid hunters, most will chase mice, birds or toys playfully and even if they catch the animal they may end up letting it go. Some are even scared of mice, and will not attempt to chase them at all.
Cats Cannot Reach The Nest
Although a cat can detect the presence of a mouse, oftentimes it can only paw underneath the refrigerator or a cabinet and will be more irritated and distressed than successful in catching it. Mice learn very quickly to avoid this potential hunter and will sneak around through the smallest holes to reach food and gather nesting material. The cat on the other hand will not be able to find the actual nest that is usually hidden in the attic in an inaccessible crevice or gap and covered with insulation material.
Eating Mice Is Unsafe For Them
Mice carry parasites such as fleas and ticks that can easily transfer to cats or dogs and then to human. Diseases like Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, Leptospirosis, and Salmonellosis are carried by the parasites or by the mice themselves and are dangerous and can sometimes be lethal.
Cats Can’t Prevent Mice From Getting In
Mice will enter your house through very small cracks, holes, and gaps around electrical or computer cables. Even a pounce of cats will not be able to prevent these tiny creatures from finding those insignificant gaps all around the house and stop a determined mouse from getting in and search for food.
How Can I Protect My Property?
The answer is not cats but rather rodent proofing the house and your attic against these critters. Sealing all cracks and holes, attaching door sweeps or strip brushes, and trimming the vegetation are a good start. Give our team at Attic Cleaning San Mateo a call and let our experts make sure your property is completely rodent proof. If you already have mice or rats in your house, we can also help you get rid of them in humane and non-lethal ways.