Getting the Facts About Mice in Your Home

Temperatures are quickly dropping in the Windy City, and that has more and more people seeking shelter from the cold indoors—unfortunately, you may not be alone in your house. Despite being so small, mice pose a huge problem for Chicago residents during the fall and winter months, when freezing temperatures send these pesky rodents indoors to escape the cold outside. And while mice may look cute and harmless, they are in fact terrible roommates that can pose a significant danger to you, your family, and your home. Here are some important facts to know that highlight the importance of mouse proofing your home this winter or contact a mice extermination company in Chicago, IL if you already have rodent activity inside.

They Spread Disease

The most important reason to get rid of mice in your home as quickly as possible is the fact that they can spread deadly diseases to you and your family. Mice can spread such diseases as hantavirus, salmonellosis, and listeria, and any contact with their urine, droppings, or nesting materials can put you at risk of contracting one or more of the deadly diseases.

They Multiply Quickly

It’s hard enough to deal with a few mice in your home, but the problem can quickly get out of hand since mice are known to multiply very quickly once they establish a nest. Mice breed year round, and one female is able to produce up to 10 litters per year. With an average of six to eight babies per litter, just a few mice can quickly multiply into dozens in a very short amount of time.

They Cause Extensive Structural Damage

People are well aware of the damage that termites can do, but they aren’t the only pests that can cause extensive structural damage. Mice chew through pretty much anything in a home, including electrical wiring. This can cause a very dangerous living situation, as wires pose a significant fire hazard once they are stripped. In fact, the Illinois Department of Public Health estimates that nearly 25% of all house fires in the United States attributes to “unknown causes” are most likely started by rodents.