Humane Mouse Traps - Let Them Go Free

Although mice are germ and bacteria carriers, many animal lovers do not want to harm the cute, furry, little critters.  In addition to the traditional, lethal mouse traps and poisonous baits, there are many humane mouse traps marketed, today.  These humane mouse traps allow for the safe capture and release of “Mickey’s” family and friends.

All humane mouse traps eliminate the dangers of chemical mice extermination.  Mouse baits are not only deadly for the mice; they have other harmful effects, as well.  If the poison is located outside, there is a chance that other animals (birds, dogs, cats, wildlife, and other rodents) might eat it.  Cats are endangered by the use of mouse and rat baits, in another way.  If a cat catches and eats a mouse that has ingested poison bait, the cat will be poisoned, also.  And, of course, as with any poisonous substance, there is a risk of children contacting or ingesting the toxic poison.

The traditional “snap” type of mouse trap, among others, is extremely inhumane.  The mouse is rarely killed instantly with these traps.  Usually, it is injured and trapped.  This results in a prolonged, torturous death.   Many of the multi-catch mouse traps are designed to catch 12 to 16 mice.  The mice are captured and slowly die of starvation and dehydration in these inhumane traps.

After considering this information, it would seem as though consumers would want to choose a humane way to handle their mouse problems.  Some of the best humane mouse traps are:

1. The Smart Mouse Trap:  This mouse trap is endorsed by the Humane Society and the Animal Rights Society.  The trap is “smart” and senses when the mouse enters, then the door automatically shuts.  This trap is designed to be mouse friendly and user friendly.  The user puts a saltine cracker in designated place and the mouse can enjoy it while waiting to be released.  The door will not open until the cracker is gone, and the user opens it.  This is an easy to use no contact design for the user.  This humane trap is available online from Arbico-organics for $12.98.

2. The Mouse Depot:  This humane trap is made of heavy duty plastic for durability and easy cleaning.  It is see through to allow the user to view the mouse.  The mouse can enter the trap, but can’t get out until released by the user.   It measures six inches long, two inches wide, and two inches high for convenient placement.  The Mouse Depot is available online from Themousedepot for $13.99 (package of two humane mouse traps).

3. The Catch A Mouse:  This “trap” is advertised as the first eco-friendly and humane mouse trap.  The trap is good for the environment because it requires the reuse of an empty two liter bottle.  The Catch A Mouse is a durable “plastic cheese” attachment.  Simply place bait (peanuts, peanut butter, cheese) inside the bottle and screw on the cheese attachment.  The mice can get in, but not out, until they’re released.  This trap is available online from Greenbottleusa for $6.99.