Rodents in Your Home? Discover the Hidden Facts

Think that squeaking in the night is harmless? Think again. Rodents are sneaky invaders, and they could be lurking in your home right now, causing unseen damage. Let's debunk some of the myths that are making it easier for them to stick around and learn how to protect your property.

7 Common Myths and Surprising Facts About Rodents

With over 80 years of rodent control experience, we've encountered countless myths—from rats supposedly chewing through steel to the idea that mice have no bones. While some myths are harmless, others could put your home at risk. Let’s set the record straight.

Myth #1: Mice Love Cheese

Fact: A mouse and a big wheel of cheese? It’s a classic cartoon image, but in reality, they prefer grains, seeds, and carbohydrates. While the origin of cheese-loving mice likely dates back to the Middle Ages, it’s a myth that can hurt homeowners’ ability to control rodents. When it’s time to set a bait, peanut butter would be much more effective.

Myth #2: Rodents Only Invade Dirty Homes

Fact: While it’s likely true that clean, uncluttered homes are less likely to get rodent infestations, rodents seek warmth, shelter, and food. Clean or dirty, any home can be a target. And to be honest, sometimes it’s out of your control. Neighbors who aren’t as diligent in rodent prevention could put your home at risk.

Myth #3: Cats Will Solve Your Rodent Problem

Fact: Cats may be natural hunters, but many lack the skill to catch rodents effectively. And mice can often adapt to their presence. A few years ago a research study funded by the National Pest Control Management Association put the cat and rodent theory to the test. According to the report: “Although cats’ stalking activity may initially keep rats out of sight, the rodents will patiently wait them out and return undeterred once the cats lose interest and leave the scene.”

Myth #4: Mice Only Come Out At Night

Fact: Mice are nocturnal, which means they are most active between dusk and dawn. But they come out at all hours of the day and night, especially if hungry.

Myth #5: Mice Can’t Climb

Fact: Mice are extremely great climbers. Their claws help them grip all kinds of surfaces including wood, and their tail helps them stay balanced while climbing. They can also jump short distances.

Myth #6: Rats and Mice Don’t Live Together

Fact: Although rare, rats and mice can share spaces, even though they often compete for food and territory. It’s more common in larger commercial facilities where both species can be found nesting and scavenging, but generally not near each other.

Myth #7: Rodents Only Eat Human Food

Fact: We’re not sure where this myth started, but it’s far from the truth. Rodents will eat almost anything to survive—human food, paper, insulation, and even soap!

Undisputed Facts about Rodents

We've heard all the myths, but there are a few hard truths every homeowner needs to understand.

• One Mouse? Think Again. Spotting a single mouse is rare. Mice live in family groups. When a mouse enters your home, they are usually not alone. And then they multiply–a female mouse can have up to a dozen babies every three weeks. It’s rarely just “one little mouse.”
• DIY Rodent Control? Not So Fast. While DIY remedies might seem like a quick fix, they often only address the symptom, not the root of the problem. The key to effective rodent control is sealing off all entry points to keep them from coming back.
• Just a Nuisance? Nope. Rodents don’t just ruin your food, they can ruin your life. From spreading diseases to gnawing through wires and causing fires, they are more dangerous than they seem.