House mice and Norway rats are common commensal rodents in Kentucky publications.ca.uky.edu. They breed rapidly—female mice can produce 5–10 litters annually, while female rats produce 4–6 litters publications.ca.uky.edu. Beyond food contamination and property damage, rodents can transmit diseases such as salmonellosis and leptospirosis publications.ca.uky.edu. Signs of infestation include droppings, gnaw marks, greasy rub marks along walls, and scratching noises at night. You may also notice burrows near foundations or runways in tall grass. Prevention is key:
Exclusion
- Seal entry points: The most permanent form of rodent control is “building them out.” Seal cracks and openings under doors, around pipes, and in foundations using hardware cloth, sheet metal, mortar or coarse steel wool publications.ca.uky.edu. Mice can squeeze through holes as small as ¼ inch publications.ca.uky.edu.
- Weather‑strip doors and windows: Ensure tight‑fitting doors and windows and repair damaged screens publications.ca.uky.edu.
- Eliminate climbing routes: Trim tree branches and shrubs away from the house; rodents are excellent climbers publications.ca.uky.edu.
Sanitation & Control
- Remove food and shelter: Store food in rodent‑proof containers, clean up spills promptly and reduce clutter where rodents can nest. Maintain tight‑fitting lids on garbage cans and compost bins, and pick up pet food at night.
- Avoid ineffective devices: Ultrasonic sound devices have little scientific evidence for rodent control; rodents quickly become accustomed to the noise publications.ca.uky.edu. Cats and dogs rarely solve infestations because rodents can co‑exist with pets publications.ca.uky.edu. There are no rodent repellents registered for use in Kentucky publications.ca.uky.edu.
- Use traps and baits correctly: Snap traps and tamper‑resistant bait stations placed flush against walls are effective. Check traps daily and refresh bait as needed. Anticoagulant baits should always be placed in secured stations out of reach of children and pets. Fumigants are highly toxic and should only be used outdoors by licensed professionals publications.ca.uky.edu.
- Remove outdoor attractants: Pick up fallen fruit, secure bird feeders and clean up pet waste to reduce food sources. Trim vegetation and remove debris piles where rodents can hide. Keep grass mowed and maintain a 2‑foot vegetation‑free strip around buildings.
Preventing rodent entry and reducing attractants will help keep your Louisville home rodent‑free. Rodent control also complements termite management because both pests exploit moisture and structural vulnerabilities—see our Termite Awareness article for moisture management tips. For persistent problems or large infestations, contact Rise Pest Pros for comprehensive rodent control.
