How High Can House Mice Jump?

House mice are expert invaders, capable of squeezing through openings as small as a ¼ inch — about the size of a pen cap! — and climbing their way into storage units, vehicles, and more.

In fact, according to a survey study done by Pest Control Technology and Bell Laboratories, 74% of pest control professionals named the house mouse as the biggest rodent threat. Their size and agility make them difficult to contain, and once inside your home, they can cause serious health risks and expensive damage.

That’s why it’s important to understand exactly what a mouse is capable of in order to properly prevent an infestation.

How High Can House Mice Jump?

Don't underestimate a mouse due to its size — they are extremely agile pests!

• Vertical jump: A house mouse can leap up to 13 inches straight into the air from a standing position.
• Horizontal leap: With a running start, house mice can clear nearly two feet in distance.
• Climbing skills: Mice can scale most rough surfaces such as drywall, brick, and wood, giving them even greater access to elevated spaces.

Whether by jumping, climbing, or squeezing, house mice are capable of reaching most areas of your home, including shelves, cabinets, vehicles, and storage spaces.

How to Know If You Have a Mouse Infestation?

Mice are not subtle guests. More often than not, they will make their presence known. Here are some immediate signs of a possible infestation:

• Droppings & nesting debris: Small, dark pellets near food sources or stored items. Shredded fabric, paper, and insulation may indicate a nest.
• Scratching and scurrying noises: Mice are nocturnal, so listen for activity at night in walls, ceilings, or behind appliances.
• Musty or ammonia-like odors: A strong, musky smell may indicate urine trails or nesting areas.
• Unusual pet behavior: Dogs or cats often detect mice before humans do. If your pet is focused on a specific area, it’s a good idea to investigate.
• Gnaw marks: Mice will chew on most everything, from wires to plastic, wood, and more.

If you notice any of these signs, act quickly — a single female mouse can birth up to 60 offspring in a year, turning a small problem into a major infestation.

How to Prevent Mice?

Once mice get into your home, it can be difficult to get them out. That’s why it’s always important to take preventative measures:

• Seal entry points: It doesn’t take much of an opening to allow a mouse into your home. Check for gaps around doors and windows, cracks in your walls or foundations, or exposed vents and fill with caulk or steel wool.
• Remove food sources: Keep all dry goods and pet food in airtight containers and clean up any spills immediately.
• Reduce clutter: Trash, scraps, and other clutter can serve as excellent nesting material for rodents in search of a cozy home.
• Natural deterrents: Scented dryer sheets, Irish Spring soap, and peppermint oils have all been found to naturally repel mice. Consider placing them strategically around your home or garage.

Why the Box-Kat Mouse Barrier is Your Best Solution

Even with preventative measures in place, some mice will still find a way in — which is why a physical barrier is your best defense.

The Box-Kat mouse barrier was specifically designed to block mice from ever reaching your home, vehicle, or storage unit.

• 14 inches tall: Taller than a house mouse’s maximum leap, making it impossible to jump over.
• Slick, durable plastic: Mice can’t climb its smooth surface, unlike traditional barriers made of wood or fabric.
• Patented flex panels: Conforms to uneven surfaces, sealing off all potential entry points mice could exploit.

When we tested the Box-Kat by placing 50 mice inside the barrier, not only did the mice not escape — the gave up attempting altogether.

It is a perfect preventative solution for your vehicle, home, garage, or storage area. Shop for your ideal Box-Kat kit here!