Do cats help control mice and rats?

Some cats will help control mice, but they won’t usually get rid of the problem. Not all cats are good mousers and if they have food and water available, the incentive to kill mice is not as strong. Few cats will go after an adult rat.
Cats can’t get in walls where mice often nest.
Pet food can actually be a food source for the mice. Cat owners should put pet food in a sealed container at night and sweep up crumbs.