When do you know when you have a rat problem?
Homeowners can fall victim to rodent infestations at any time of the year. Sharing your home with rats can pose health risks to you and your family.
Signs of rats are hard to miss. Some rats won’t be too difficult to spot. Unfortunately, catching the evidence is more accessible than getting rid of the vermin hiding in your home.
Read on to learn which are the most common rodent signs. Keep an eye out for these red flags so you can take action before it’s too late.
1. Hiding and Noises
Rats can be a nuisance, so it’s important to stay vigilant to know when you have an issue. When determining if you have a rat problem, one sign of being aware of is hiding. Rats will scatter and stay out of sight if they hear a noise or when there is a disturbance.
Another sign is noises. Rats are nocturnal and can be heard scratching or squeaking throughout the night. Additionally, they will scurry through pipes and walls. You may listen to them scurrying behind walls or in the attic.
2. Droppings and Nests
Rat droppings are typically small, around 3/8″, and dark brown or black. Rat droppings are usually found near the rat’s nest, food, or water sources. If you see rat droppings that are wet and soft, you likely have fresh droppings and an active nest.
Nests are made from insulation, shredded paper, fabric, or other material and are usually found in attics, basements, walls, appliances, and furniture.
3. Chewing and Gnawing
Rats are notorious for gnawing and burning activities that can weaken walls, pipes, and other materials. When you can hear noises coming from your walls and lines, you likely have a rat problem. Early signs of a rat problem also include strange noises from outside your home or scratching and scurrying noises in the walls as the rats make their way around.
You will likely see chewed-up materials and packages, along with scraps of food you didn’t leave out yourself, stored in various cabinets and shelves where the rats have stashed them.
4. Recognizing Unexplained Damage
Unexplained damage to walls, furniture, and other structures in your home or property may be an indication of a rat problem. Gnawing by rats can result in short-circuiting of appliances, hot wiring, walls and baseboards, and other damage to personal and household items.
5. Unnecessary Smell
An unnecessary smell is one of the most common signs that you might have a rat problem in your home. A rat’s primary food source is often food scraps, so when a rat infestation goes unchecked, the smell of rotting food can be present in some regions of the house.
If you think you have a rat infestation, look for the best rodent control services.
Do You Have a Rat Problem?
Overall, it’s essential to be aware of the signs of a rat problem so that you can take action to ensure the health and safety of all. Taking the time and effort to protect your home and family from the dangers of rats is worth it!
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