Seeing actual rats is, of course, the most obvious indicator of a rat problem. Rodents, like rats, are swift and like to hide. You could still have an infestation even if you do not see any rats. Continue reading to learn more.
In case you do not see them, here are the symptoms of a rat infestation:
- Scars from chewing on the walls and furnishings
- Capsule droppings
- Footprints
- Walls with greasy fur marks.
- Damaged food packaging
- Noises in walls and attic
Mice and rats can be confused. You should know that rats are considerably longer and larger than mice.
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There Are Numerous Dangers Associated with Having Rats on Your Property
There are several reasons to avoid a rat infestation. First, rats carry numerous hazardous infections. They are known to transmit diseases such as leptospirosis, rat-bite fever, and salmonellosis. Furthermore, they may carry fleas and ticks into your home with them. Disease risk is significant because rats infest food. To avoid illness, rat infestations must be eradicated quickly.
Rats can also harm property. They chew walls, electrical cables, and food packaging with their sharp teeth. Nesting inside walls can cause insulation concerns.
Effective Rat Exclusion Methods
Sometimes home rodent control does not work. Reaching whole rat nests is crucial to eradicating an infestation but can be challenging. If your traps do not catch all the rats, they are useless. These rat avoidance tactics will keep rats away from your home:
- Firewood and yard trash should be kept away from the home.
- Wall holes should be sealed.
- Eliminate excess moisture.
- Securely store food.
- Clean up.
Rats can nest in yard waste and woodpiles. These near your home make it easier for rats to enter. Leaves, grass clippings, timber, and other debris should be several feet from your house. Rats can climb and fit into small areas despite their size. To prevent rats from entering, plug any hole larger than a quarter. Humidity and pooled water attract rats. They find the water they need through leaking pipes or air conditioners, so they venture indoors. Fix any issues and ventilate your home.
Keep rats away from your food. Keep food in airtight, sturdy containers. This will prevent rats from opening the package and accessing the food inside. Make sure food trash is properly bagged and disposed of. An animal-proof lid may be needed for your outdoor trash can.
Keeping rats out of your houses is crucial since they cause so many issues. Call a pest control specialist for rodent removal if you detect rats in your home.
