
Why Do Mice Chew Wires?
Why Do Mice Chew Wires?

If you live in Elverta, CA, you know how chaotic winters can get. Not just because of the rain, or because of the holiday celebrations that inevitably eat up your schedule, but also because unwelcome pests like mice start to come indoors looking for warm shelter.
Although you’ll find mice indoors at any time of the year, you’re more likely to spot them as they run for cover during inclement weather. And what problems they create!
Besides leaving their tiny footprints and droppings behind, mice can wreak unexpected havoc, especially when they decide your wires are their new chew toys.
But why do mice chew wires, and is there anything you can do about it? We’ll walk you through it in this post.
Why Do Mice Chew Electrical Wires in the First Place?

Mice are relentless nibblers! Their teeth never stop growing, which means they need to constantly chew to keep them in check. Wires are an unlucky target because these small rodents gnaw on whatever is available to prevent overgrowth of their incisors.
The issue isn’t limited to just a few old wires tucked away in your attic. Once they get started, mice can chew through a surprising variety of household materials, including plastics and even metals.
Among all things chewable, mice chew electrical wires because they’re frequently soft, accessible, and warm.
Unfortunately for homeowners, this creates a perfect storm. Warm, poorly insulated spaces like attics, basements, or the walls of older homes often house electrical wiring. When mice move in, it’s only a matter of time before they start doing damage.
Are Chewed Wires Dangerous?

Absolutely! Chewed wiring leads to more than just a loss of power. Here’s why it’s a serious concern:
Fire Risk: Damaged wires increase the risk of electrical shorts, which can lead to house fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, electrical issues are one of the leading causes of home fires.
Costly Repairs: Fixing chewed wires isn’t cheap! Unless you’re incredibly handy, most people will need to hire an electrification to replace wiring in multiple areas, which significantly increases repair bills.
Damage to Devices: Compromised wiring can wreak havoc on home appliances and electronics, particularly if voltage irregularities occur due to poor connections.
The damage isn’t always visible, either. Mice don’t chew on wires out in the open, but instead, in hidden nooks, making it tricky to spot an issue until it turns lethal.
When to Call Professional Mice Control Services
The moment you spot signs of mice, it’s time to act. Droppings, gnawed materials, or faint scratching sounds in the walls are clear indicators that you might have a problem. Don’t wait for chewed wires, costly electrical problems, or worse, a fire, before you take action.
At Black Sheep Pest Protection, we specialize in humane and effective mice control services for homes in Elverta, CA, and nearby areas. Our process is thorough and comprehensive, and starts with a detailed inspection of your property for rodent entrances and nesting areas. We’ll then implement safe, targeted removal methods before we seal off your home to prevent future invasions.
Don’t wait for a costly electrical repair to act. Reach out to Black Sheep Pest Protection and protect your home with humane and effective mice control services.
Contact us today for an estimate.
Did You Know?
On average, a single mouse can produce 17,000 droppings in a year. Beyond being unsanitary, it’s also a reliable clue for locating an infestation. If you’ve spotted an unusual number of droppings around electrical wiring, particularly in warm spaces, it’s time to investigate!
FAQ
Why do mice chew wires?
Mice chew wires to keep their teeth from overgrowing. Wires are accessible, soft, and fit perfectly into their natural chewing instinct.
Why do mice chew electrical wires specifically?
Electrical wires often run through warm, hidden spaces where mice nest. They’re soft enough to gnaw on and provide easy access for rodents moving within your home's walls or attic.
Are chewed wires by mice a fire hazard?
Yes. Exposed wires from chewing can result in electrical shorts and significantly increase the risk of home fires.
How do I prevent mice from chewing wires?
Seal all potential entry points in your home, especially in basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Consider professional mice control services to eliminate existing infestations and prevent future problems.
What should I do if I suspect a mouse infestation in Elverta, CA?
Contact Black Sheep Pest Protection immediately for professional mice control services. We’ll secure your home and ensure every rodent is safely removed.