Avoid poison. The mouse will eat the poison and die somewhere hidden. In addition, the poison can be eaten by children and animals. Glue traps are the least humane. The mouse will either starve to death or chew off its own leg and die in an unknown location.
It is best to bait the trap before you set it. In spring-loaded traps, for example, it’s easy to trigger the trap and have it snap closed on your fingers. Keeping the bait thin can also force the mouse to work more to eat it. Peanut butter for instance when left in a thin coating will start to dry.
You may have multiple areas with a lot of mice traffic. Cover those areas too.
When on a budget, traps can be reused. Scrub them thoroughly with soap and water while wearing disposable gloves. Throw the gloves away before resetting the traps.
Stores may also carry humane traps. Check at your hardware store or online.
If you’re having trouble getting the tube to stay still or balance, you can tape it lightly. Make sure the tape isn’t holding it tight enough that it won’t move when the mouse is inside. If you do not have a table or counter that will work, you can instead construct a ramp up to the top of the bucket. Numerous objects, including cardboard or stacked wood, can be used as long as the ramp is sturdy enough to support the mouse’s weight.
Food options include uncooked oatmeal, peanuts, bird seed, and dry pet food.
