If you don't have mice, havng cat(s) will probably keep them away. However, if you get a cat because you have mice, it's a good idea to open the bottom cabinets at night before you go to bed, leaving the cat on patrol. I've used that trick in two different domiciles and it didn't take long to eliminate all sign of mice. The mice seem to move out much more quickly than if they have hidey holes the cat can't get to. (Don't know if the neighbors had a sudden onslaught of critters.)