The common house mouse (Mus musculus) can be quite difficult to control. Since the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that rodents are responsible for transmitting such diseases as salmonellosis, hemorrhagic fever, and even the plague, it is important to know when to call an exterminator. 

When Preventative Measures Fail

It is up to the homeowner to take proper measures to prevent mice from entering the home. This includes keeping food in containers and cleaning up all messes immediately after they occur. You'll also need to seal off all openings around the outside of your home that are larger than 1/4 inch to keep the rodents from being able to enter. One myth is that getting a cat will keep mice away. A cat may catch a mouse or two, but the cat won't stop an infestation. If you've tried incorporating preventative measures and you still spot a rodent, it's time to call a professional. 

When You Notice Evidence of a Mouse

There's no need to wait to see an actual mouse before calling an exterminator. If you have a family of mice living in your home, you'll soon see evidence of it. You may find mouse droppings in the kitchen, chewed cereal boxes in the pantry, or a nest made of shredded fibers in the attic. Mice are also known for giving off a musky odor. If you come across any of these signs, you'll want to contact rat control services immediately. According to the American Fancy Rat & Mouse Association, mice breed very quickly. The female can get pregnant at just six weeks old and give birth just three weeks later. That means in 1 year's time, it is possible to have over 130,000 mice in your home. Professional rodent control services will ensure your home is free of these pests.

When You Spot a Mouse

It is possible that you may come across a mouse before you ever see evidence of one. It may be tempting to set up traps or use store-bought baits to try to catch the rodent yourself, but this would only be a temporary solution, if you were even able to catch the mouse at all. Exterminators know exactly where to place traps and what baits are safe to use around humans and pets. They are also licensed to use certain toxicants that may be needed to effectively eliminate the family of mice from your home.