Mouse droppings are only about 1-2 millimeters thick. [3] X Trustworthy Source EDIS Electronic database of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’s peer-reviewed articles Go to source

Newer scat will have a shine to it. In some lighting, mouse droppings can look dark brown. [6] X Research source

Rat droppings can be at least 3 millimeters wide. [10] X Trustworthy Source EDIS Electronic database of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’s peer-reviewed articles Go to source Some droppings might be tapered on 1 end and rounded on the other. [11] X Research source

South American arenaviruses include Argentine hemorrhagic fever, Bolivian hemorrhagic fever, Sabiá-associated hemorrhagic fever, and Venezuelan hemorrhagic fever.

A diluted bleach mixture should have a 1:10 bleach to water ratio. If you’re using a standard disinfectant, check the label to see how much it has to be diluted. You might also have to wait a certain amount of time for the chemicals to completely sanitize the area.

If you found droppings near your bed, strip the sheets and blankets and wash them on a hot water cycle.

On a similar note, try not to sweep up the droppings with a broom and dustpan, either.

Unfortunately, a little damage can go a long way. Believe it or not, mice can shimmy through holes that are less than 1 in (2. 5 cm) wide, while rats can push through openings that are about 1. 2 in (3. 0 cm) wide. [25] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source

In general, all rodents prefer dark and isolated spots where they won’t be bothered. You’ll probably find a mouse nest in this kind of spot.

Be sure to check outside your home for possible entry points, too! Rodents can sneak in through your roof, windows, vents, and utility lines. In fact, some crafty critters can squeeze through gaps in your foundation or even beneath doors.

Don’t be discouraged if the traps don’t work right away. Rats tend to be super careful and probably won’t get trapped immediately.

The CDC suggests getting rid of any potential nesting spots around your home, like stacks of firewood, garbage cans, bundles of hay, unused tires, and tall grass or shrubs.