Difference Between Mice and Rats: Mice vs Rats

Mice and rats might seem similar at first, but they’re actually quite different. These differences matter to know how you are going to manage rats and mice at home and that is why it is important to know what you’re dealing with. We’ll break down the basics:

• what mice and rats look like
• how they behave
• the best ways to keep them out of your space for good.

What Mice and Rats Look Like – Size, Shape and Colour

Mice- These are tiny and slim. They are 2.5 to 4 inches long, and their tails are just as long as their bodies and their weight is just half an ounce or one ounce. They don’t weigh much, their weight is just half an ounce or one ounce. Some house mice are light brown and some are grey in colour. They have big, round ears, a small pointed nose, and long, thin tails covered with tiny hairs.

Rats- They are much bigger and heavier in size. Grown-up rats are normally 7 to 10 inches long, and their tails are thick, scaly, and usually hairless. In comparision to mice, rats look tougher, with bigger heads, feet, and are bulkier.

Can Mice Bite You?

Yes, mice can bite, but they do not do it normally. Mice prefer to escape and hide. They do not like fighting but when a mouse is scared, it may bite to defend itself. Mother mice may also bite when they believe that their babies are under threat.

In case you are ever bitten, wash it thoroughly and consult a doctor. Wild mice should not be touched and should be left to the professionals.

What do Mice Eat and How do they Behave

They eat both plants and animals. When they are outside, feed on seeds, grains, and fruits. But if they get access to your house, they’ll eat almost anything like crumbs, pet food, and sometimes even things like soap or paper if they can’t find real food.

Mice eat a lot and by a lot I mean around 15 to 20 times a day, so they make their home near places where food is easy to find and always available.

How Big Do Mice Get?

Mice in the U.S. are normally 2.5 to 4 inches long. Their tail can add another 2.5 to 4 inches. They are extremely lightweight. They are tiny and can fit into small holes and cracks in your house.

Want to know How Smart Are Rats?

Rats are really smart animals. They can solve problems, notice patterns,  and learn tasks. In some cases, they are even better than humans at smartness. Rats are also social creatures that can form friendships with other rats and even with humans, recognizing people by their scent. Their intelligence makes them more careful and harder to trap than mice.

Effective Methods on How to Get Rid of both Mice and Rats

To end rodents infestation, follow the steps mentioned below:

• Find Entry Points
• Place Traps in the Right Spots
• Choose the Right Bait
• Keep Things Clean
• Get Rid of Dirty Storages
• Take Professional Help

Use mice control products and regularly inspect your home for new signs of activity.

Conclusion

Mice are smaller and easy to capture whereas rats are larger, smarter and difficult to capture. Both are capable of health problems. Always be quick to take action when you suspect the presence of mice or rats and always keep in mind that the best way to defend your home is to know them.