Rodents, like mice and rats, enter our homes in search of food, water, and shelter, meaning that knowing what rodents eat is the first step to implementing effective prevention strategies. Rodents are notorious for gnawing their way through boxes, wires, and even the items in our fridges or pantries. By understanding which foods are most attractive to them, homeowners can take steps to ensure these items are not easily accessible. So, what do mice eat? What do rats eat? And how can you keep these pests out of your home?

What do rats like to eat?

Rats are omnivores, meaning that their diet includes both plants and animals. This flexibility in their diet allows them to adapt to almost any environment, including our homes. Around the house, rats are known to eat pretty much anything they can find, including leftovers or scraps, fruits, vegetables, cereals, grains, and pet food. They are also attracted to oils or other fats that may be found on countertops or kitchen appliances. In the wild, rats like to eat grains, seeds, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. Although rats are typically picky eaters, if they can't find their preferred foods, they will make the most of any available food sources they come across.

Rodent eating

What do mice like to eat?

Similar to their larger counterparts, mice are also omnivores. Mice tend to prefer grains, fruits, and seeds. However, their diet is not limited to these, as they are known to eat rice, cereal, oats, vegetables, and meats. What mice eat tends to include food that is high in carbohydrates, making sweets like chocolate a popular choice. Contrary to popular belief, most mice will pass on cheese, preferring other protein-rich snacks like peanut butter.

Mouse eating

Protecting your house from rodents

Now that you know what rodents eat, you can start protecting your home from these pests. Properly storing and sealing food, removing trash and clutter, and keeping a clean kitchen can help prevent rodents from dining in your home.

Need rodent control you can count on? Terminix can help. With our PestFree365+ plans, you can help protect your home from rats and mice, along with up to 37 other common household pests.1 Schedule your free inspection today.

1 To see our Covered Pests, visit Terminix.com/pest-control/pestfree365. Automatic payment sign up is required for PestFree365+. Voles and fire ants are only covered if they are in the home, we will not treat the lawn. Homes must be free of bed bugs at the initial service to qualify for coverage of bed bugs under the PestFree365+ Plan. Applies to single family, free-standing, owner-occupied homes only. Account must be in good standing. Other limitations may apply. See Plan for details.