Different Signs of a Rat Infestation
Rat infestations are a common household problem that can cause significant damage and pose health risks. Early detection is essential for effective eradication and prevention of future infestations.
Keep an eye out for the following telltale signs of an infestation to ensure the safety and sanitation of your home. If you see any of these signs, don’t waste any time – hire rat exterminator services to eradicate and control the problem.
Droppings
One of the most obvious signs of a rat infestation is the presence of droppings. Unlike mouse droppings, which are smaller and pointed, rat droppings are larger and have rounded ends. You can typically find them near food sources like pantry shelves, kitchen cabinets, or near garbage bins.
Gnaw Marks
Rats have sharp incisors that they use to gnaw on various materials, including wood, plastic, and electrical wiring. If you notice unexplained gnaw marks around your home – especially on baseboards, pipes, or wiring – there might be rats lurking within your walls.
Scampering Noises
Listen carefully for any scratching, scampering, or squeaking noises coming from your ceilings, walls, or floorboards. These sounds could indicate rats moving about in these areas or nesting nearby.
Nesting Materials
Rats build nests using soft materials like shredded paper, fabric, or insulation found in attics or inside crawl spaces. If you uncover piles of these materials in concealed locations, there could be rats nesting nearby.
Unpleasant Odors
A strong, musky odor in your home may indicate the presence of rats. This distinctive smell comes from their urine and gland secretions that they leave behind as they move throughout the environment.
Smudge Marks
Rats tend to use the same pathways along walls and baseboards repeatedly, which can result in greasy smudge marks from their fur displayed on surfaces. Be on the lookout for these dark streaks around corners or near the small gaps that rats might use to enter buildings.
Pet Behavior
Pets often sense a rat infestation before humans do. If your cat or dog repeatedly focuses on an area or behaves as if they’re “on the hunt,” you should contact a rat control business.
Visual Confirmation
While rats are primarily nocturnal, you might catch sight of them scurrying about during the day, particularly if their hiding places have been disturbed or their population has grown too large.
Take Action Immediately
If you suspect a rat infestation in your home, take action immediately by contacting a professional exterminator and pest control company. The swift intervention will minimize any potential damage and health risks while ensuring the safety and cleanliness of your living space.
Make Sure You Choose a Full-Service Pest Control Company
When choosing a company, make sure you work with a pest control company that offers various services for rat control and extermination, as well as other pest control offerings. A full-service company will allow you to schedule a regular maintenance plan so you can stay free of rodents and other pests.
