What Mice Usually Eat and What They Can Do to Your Food

Last updated on October 23, 2023

Mice are pets that people commonly encounter in their homes. They build nests using any unused materials they can get and usually starts to infest house by squeezing through small gaps in homes. Often, mice invade houses during winter as they look for a source of food. To prevent mice from causing damage or posing health risks to your home, it helps to know the type of food they usually eat. Also, mice pest control near me is often effective when it involves prevention, not just cure. 

Food Sources for Mice

Because mice are omnivores, they like to consume grains, nuts, seeds, and fruits. Some people do not know that mice do not love cheese, but they still eat this and anything that smells great. For a hungry mouse, the most important thing is they can access food items easily. When mice scavenge food, they will consume pet food, food scraps, and even insects, depending on what they can get. 

Eating Habits of Mice

Mice are drawn to warm environments that give them access to various kinds of foods. Often, house mice feed themselves at dusk and dawn. Sometimes, they feed in between this period. The majority of wild mice stay away from humans and ensure they don’t get spotted. Also, they have good hearing and will hide quickly when they sense a person approaching. Thus, you may not see a mouse eat. 

When mice find food and a place to build a nest, they can cause significant damage. They gnaw on electrical wiring, which serves as a source of food and nesting material. They also burrow into insulation, cardboard boxes, trash cans, and paper to create nests and raise their young. 

Protecting Your Food Against Mice

Mice can contaminate your sources of food they ransack. They can spread a lot of microbes and pathogens that can harm you and your family. Hantavirus is a dangerous disease mice can carry. As mice look for food inside your house, whatever comes into contact with them or their droppings can be contaminated. 

To ensure your food is protected against this contamination, store all food properly in airtight and sturdy containers. Mice can easily chew through plastic or paper bags. Also, you can deter mice by cleaning your house regularly, particularly the kitchen, and taking out your trash. 

If you currently have a mouse issue at home, contact a rodent control expert to eliminate the problem for you. The expert will use a combination of techniques based on your specific situation. After treating your home for mice, they can establish a preventative maintenance plan with you.