Rodent-Proofing Your Home Before Winter

When cold weather arrives, mice and rats start looking for warm places to spend the winter—and your home is an attractive target. Here's how to keep them out.

Seal Entry Points

Mice can squeeze through openings as small as a dime, while rats need only a quarter-sized hole. Inspect and seal:



• Gaps around pipes and wires
• Cracks in the foundation
• Gaps under doors
• Openings around vents
• Roof line gaps

Use steel wool combined with caulk for best results, as rodents can't chew through steel wool.

Store Food Properly

Keep all food in sealed containers, including pet food. Don't leave food out overnight, and clean up crumbs promptly.

Reduce Clutter

Rodents love cluttered areas where they can hide and nest. Keep storage areas organized and off the floor when possible.

Trim Trees and Bushes

Branches touching your home give rodents easy roof access. Keep vegetation trimmed back at least three feet from your home.

Signs You May Already Have Rodents

• Droppings near food sources or in cabinets
• Gnaw marks on food packaging or wood
• Scratching sounds in walls at night
• Nesting materials like shredded paper
• Grease marks along walls

When to Call the Professionals

If you see signs of rodent activity, don't wait. Rodents **reproduce quickly**—one pair of mice can produce up to **60** offspring in a year.

Got a Pest Problem Right Now?

Don't wait for bugs to take over. Contact Texoma Pest Pros today for a free estimate in Durant, OK!