The mice that live in the dwellings are constantly looking for food. They can produce 50 to 80 droppings per day. These are often a sign of an active mouse infestation in the home. It only takes 10 mice to produce 500 mouse droppings per day and 3500 droppings per week. Find out the difference between a rat, a mouse and a field mouse.
These feces can serve as a habitat for hantavirus, a dangerous virus that attacks the lungs. The latter can also be found in the saliva and urine of infected mice. If you notice mouse droppings in your home, contact an exterminator near you immediately.
How to recognize mouse droppings?
The droppings of these rodents take the form of a grain of rice 3 to 8 mm long with pointed ends. They are most often found in places where mice circulate, such as along walls, for example.
Here is an example of excrement compared to a 10-cent coin.
Mice don’t need a lot of water. Their feces and urine therefore often give off an unpleasant odor.
When the droppings are “fresh”, they have a very dark, almost black colour. This may be a sign of a recent mouse infestation. Over time, the droppings turn grayish. Therefore, if the latter are pale, it may be a sign of an old infestation.
Where to find mouse droppings?
Mice are nocturnal, so they are not easy to spot. That’s why the droppings they leave behind are a good indicator of an infestation. 
It is advisable to check or have a professional inspect the following areas of the house if you suspect the presence of mice:
- Kitchen cabinets, pantries, and other places where food is stored or prepared
- Closets and areas around appliances and water heaters
- Bathroom cabinets and cupboards
- Attic and crawl space
- Any part of the house where there are air vents, exposed pipes, or holes in the walls
How do you clean mouse droppings?
Mouse droppings are dangerous to people’s health. Therefore, precautions must be taken to clean them. Some diseases can be transmitted through contact between rodents and humans. It is therefore important to put on gloves to protect your hands and wear a mask to cover your mouth and nose. This will prevent you from inhaling pathogenic particles. Learn more about how to decontaminate a mouse-infested home.
Take the time to inspect all the places, even those that are difficult to access, such as behind appliances or under furniture. It is highly recommended to then use a disinfectant to kill bacteria and viruses. Here is a summary of the steps to follow:
- Ventilate the space where the pellets are located for at least 30 minutes before cleaning.
- Wear rubber, latex, or vinyl gloves and a respirator or respirator.
- Use a disinfectant spray on the spot and let it soak for five minutes. You can also make your own version by mixing one part bleach to 10 parts water.
- Clean the area with disposable cloths or paper towels.
- Put mouse droppings and disposable cleaning products in a plastic bag; close it tightly.
- Place the sealed bag in a covered trash can, and take out the waste as soon as possible.
It is also important to avoid sweeping or vacuuming mouse pellets until the area has been thoroughly cleaned. Particles from mouse dander and feces could end up in the air, which could make family members sick.
What can be done to eliminate mice in the long term?
Exterminating mice in your home is a complex operation. Therefore, it is best to call in a professional. He or she has the skills and expertise to carry out this intervention safely. However, if you want to tackle it yourself, here is our guide on How to get rid of mice in the house.
To exterminate mice, call Nova Extermination!
Since its founding, Nova Extermination has specialized in the extermination of mice, animals and insects in your home. Our expertise and know-how have made us leaders in our industry. Our team of dedicated professionals offers superior service in a timely manner. We also offer an emergency service available at all times, no matter what time you call.
If you need to exterminate mice in your home, contact us today. We will be happy to answer all your questions.
