If you’ve ever watched classic shows like Tom and Jerry or seen clips of The Itchy & Scratchy Show on The Simpsons, then I’m sure you’re well aware that cats and mice don’t actually make great friends. Although they’re just cartoon shows, in reality, the cat and mouse are predator and prey. The smell of a feline triggers a strong stress response in mice that’s similar to post-traumatic stress disorder. At the end of the day, cats will try to hunt mice down. With that being said, some people may have considered using their pet cats as a way to deter rodents from entering or staying in their homes. It might seem like the best idea, but that isn’t really the case. Continue reading to find out why this seemingly good idea won’t work out for you.
Can Cats Keep Mice Away From Your Homes?
There’s actually quite a bit of research done on this particular topic. Unfortunately, many have concluded that cats are just not enough to keep mice at bay. There have been cases where rodents were found in residents when cats were present which means they don’t do much in terms of keeping them away. However, the cat might play a role in decreasing their movements or changing up their foraging patterns so that they can stay hidden and not draw any attention. So ultimately, the only thing a cat really does is prevent the mice or rats from coming out in the open. On the contrary, homes with more than one predator, for example, cats and dogs have been successful in deterring away mice.
Why Aren’t Cats Good For Rodent Control
Sadly, even though a cat and mouse are mortal enemies, cats just can’t replace the conventional methods of rodent control. There are many reasons why cats aren’t suited to hunting and catching rodents and here is why.
They Are House Pets
Cats may have the skills and ferocity when they were born and raised in the wild, but your pet cats are a different story. Over the years of domestication, your pet cat doesn’t require the same skill sets. For example, they no longer need to hunt because they have someone to constantly feed them. If your cat does end up finding a mouse, instead of hunting and eating them they may end up just toying with or maiming them. Imagine coming home to that mess.
Cats Are Bad at Killing Rats
As much as this contradicts their nature, cats are surprisingly bad at killing rodents, especially rats. Although cats have preyed on similar rodents for years, research suggests that cats even feral cats are unfortunately ineffective when it comes to catching these rodents. Although they try, most of the time cats just end up stalking the rats and aren’t successful in catching and killing them. This could be due to the size and ferocity of the rats however the actual reason why cats are bad at killing rats is based on speculations at the moment.
Cat and Mouse Interactions Are Slim
As it was mentioned before, even though cats don’t do anything to deter rodents from entering your homes they do impact a mouse’s scavenging patterns. I’m sure you’re all aware rodents like to live in crevices, cracks, and holes in our walls, attic, and any other small places they can crawl into. Cats would obviously not be able to reach these places so the only chances of them actually bumping into each other is when they come out in the open. If mice are aware that cats are present from their scent, they will most likely not come out unless they really need to.
What You Should Do Instead
As much as everyone loves the idea of using cats for rodent control, it’s just not practical. Sticking to traps and cages will probably work a lot better. However, the most effective method of rodent control would be to contact a reputable pest control company. Action Pest Control is exactly what you’re looking for cost-effective rodent control or removal. They’ve been in business for at least 40 years now, so you know they have the expertise when it comes to these kinds of situations. Not to mention their latest high-tech equipment and thorough pest procedures. If you suspect rodents have invaded your homes, contact Action Pest today!
