Noticing a hole in your wall? Rats might be the problem
Rats and other rodents can be very determined to get into human dwellings, especially during winter months when seeking food, warmth, and shelter. Due to the extreme damage that can be caused by rodent infestations, not to mention the several health risks that rats and mice can pose, it is important to pay attention to the signs of a rat or mouse problem so that you can address it as soon as possible. Rodents can spread several serious diseases that can affect humans, either through direct contact or bites or by leaving urine and droppings to contaminate living spaces and human food storage areas. Diseases can also be transmitted by any parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites that might have been carried by an infected rodent. Because rodents are dangerous to human health and property condition, you should pay attention for any of the following signs of a rat problem, so that you can deal with the problem as soon as possible to avoid further trouble.
Signs of a rat or rodent problem
Each of the following issues should let you know that it’s time to deal with a rodent issue. If you notice two or more of these issues, especially a live rat sighting, you might want to bring in professional help so that you can safely address your rodent problem before it gets any worse.
Droppings
Seeing rat droppings is an unmistakable sign of a rat problem. These tend to be similar in appearance but much larger than mouse droppings, with long pieces at least half an inch long or longer that may either be pointed or blunt at the ends.
Musky, foul odors
Rat and rodent urine leaves a strong, disgusting odor that is unique to this kind of animal and very pungent. Once you smell it, you’ll know there are rodents nearby and that you need to get rid of them as soon as possible. Remember that rodent urine can transmit several diseases, so be sure to clean all contaminated areas carefully–the safest bet is to hire professional help to do so.
Holes and gnaw marks on walls and baseboards
Rats are the most likely of all common household rodents to gnaw a large hole in the wall or baseboard of a human home or business. This allows them to enter the home for food and water while nesting inside a wall or crawlspace. Rodents are also known to tear up insulation in attics when they make their nests.
Seeing a live rat or rodent
If you see a live rat or other rodent, then you know for sure that you have a problem. Because rodents breed so quickly, and because rats in particular are risky to allow inside your home due to the diseases they can give you if they bite you, you must act immediately if you see a live rodent.
For help with rat problems, call West Termite, Pest & Lawn today.
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