They might be cute, or they might be big and ugly, but their incessant need to chew is not helping your home. Rodents can do serious damage to your woodwork, wallboard, insulation and siding. The mess they leave in your kitchen cupboard is frustrating, sure, and with the costs of food going up you can’t afford to fork out for your furry friends’ dinners as well as your own.
Tackle the rodent issue as soon as you spot signs of their encroachment – don’t wait until you find yourself leaping onto a chair to avoid that rat racing across the kitchen. At that point, you’ll be waging a war rather than just defending your borders.
If you’ve copped on to the presence of critters early enough, you may be able to use non-lethal force. It may be a matter of blocking their entrances and encouraging them to go elsewhere. Fill any holes they might be entering through and caulk cracks. Screens and steel wool (which can’t be chewed through) are good deterrents.
If you have children or pets you may want to try natural rodent repellents. Some people suggest putting cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil near openings and in areas...