How to catch a mouse when traps don't work?

"I’ve set out traps, but the mice won’t go near them.  What do I do when mouse traps are not working?"

When mouse traps are not working, it’s easy to feel stuck. You might see droppings or hear scratching, but no matter what you try, you can’t catch a mouse. This usually happens because mice are avoiding traps.

Here are a few reasons why they may be avoiding the area: 

• Mice ignore traps because they’ve detected human scent on them
• Traps are placed in the wrong location, away from regular travel paths
• Old or unappealing bait that no longer attracts attention
• Too many traps set at once, which can make mice wary

If your mouse traps are not working, a few simple adjustments may help. Place traps flush against walls, keep them in low-light areas where mice are most active, and avoid overloading your space with too many devices at once. Using fresh bait and keeping traps scent-free by wearing gloves can also improve your chances.

Even with careful setup, there are times when you can’t catch a mouse because the infestation is well-established. Mice can nest behind walls, inside attics, or in hard-to-reach areas where traps alone won’t make a difference. It often takes a mouse control professional to deploy multiple treatment methods - not just traps - to help eliminate a mouse infestation and prevent them from returning.

Our technicians can inspect your home, identify the entry points, and develop a targeted plan to help remove mice and protect your home in the long term.