Every summer resident, having finished the summer season and heading home for the winter, faces the question of protecting his summer house from uninvited guests.
Among the main problems is the invasion of rodents, which can cause significant damage to property, spoil supplies and create unsanitary conditions.
The first and perhaps most important step in protecting your dacha from rodents is to keep it clean and tidy. Rodents such as mice and rats look for warm, secluded places with easy access to food.

So by removing all food supplies, carefully packing them in airtight containers, and avoiding crumbs and scraps, you reduce the likelihood of attracting rodents.
Mice and rats can crawl through even the tiniest cracks. Therefore, a thorough inspection and sealing of all possible entrances to the house is an important step. Close all cracks in the walls, floor and ceiling.
To seal the holes, metal mesh or special gels and fillers that are difficult to chew through are ideal.
There are various rodent control products on the market. Among them are both natural repellents and chemical preparations.
Natural repellents: Peppermint and lavender essential oils, as well as mugwort leaves, are powerful repellents for mice and rats. Place dried leaves or oil-soaked cotton balls in areas where rodents may enter.
Chemicals: Poisons and poisoned baits are effective in controlling infestations, but should be used with caution, especially if you have pets or small children who might accidentally eat them.
Traps will be a great addition to other control methods. They can be mechanical, adhesive or electronic.
Set traps in areas where you notice the most rodent activity. Check and clean them regularly.
If you have the opportunity, leaving your cat at your dacha can be a great way to deter rodents. Cats are natural predators that mice and rats avoid at all costs.
It is important to remember that the key to successful rodent control is prevention.
Regular inspections, timely elimination of gaps and cracks, as well as the use of repellents can significantly reduce the risk of rodent infestation.
Your dacha will be protected from rodent attacks in winter. After all, it is the systematic approach and attention to detail that create the foundation for a calm and safe wintering of your property.