Common Signs You Need Rat Pest Control Immediately

Uncontrolled pests in the environment affect our quality of life, how much more those inside our houses which directly contaminate our food and damage our properties.   Seriously, these animals carry with them viruses and bacteria and the foul odors coming from them are really disgusting.   All these bring stress and embarrassing situations for homeowners and occupants.  

Rats are among these pests that need to be earnestly eliminated considering the bad effects of their existence.   Anywhere they can be found because of their adaptability and very quick reproduction.  They can be 6 to 9 inches in length excluding their tail and with their sturdy teeth they can chew our food, small animals, wires, and wood. Rats are nocturnal smart animals that can live for 1 to 3 years in the wild but longer in captivity.  With these characteristics of these animals, there is really a need to address their existence in our homes immediately.  

Here are the telling signs that you need urgent rat pest control.

Droppings and Urine Odor

A very common indicator of rat infestation is when you notice their droppings – small, dark, and pellet-shaped poo usually in the pantries, kitchen cabinets, and along baseboards.  Also, their urine has a strong ammonia-like smell which will not escape your observation.

Gnaw Marks and Property Damage

As mentioned, they possess strong teeth that continue to grow enabling them to chew on anything – food, wires, wood, plastic, and even concrete.  So, if you observe gnawing marks on your electrical wires, food packages, and furniture it means these rodents are enjoying active existence in your homes.

Scratching Noises

You can easily hear scratching or squeaking sounds at night since rats seem to be more active in the dark and quiet environment.  If this is what is happening, then you really have a rat issue.

Nests and Shredded Materials

Seeing a rat’s nest is already a significant indicator of their impending population growth which you must address immediately.  Their nest is usually made of shredded materials from paper, fabric, and insulation which they may build in basements, attics, or even behind appliances.  

Grease Marks and Footprints

Finding small footprints or tail marks in dusty areas and greasy smudge marks (due to their oily fur)  along walls and baseboards should alarm your anti-pest instincts.

Unusual Pet Behavior

Your dog or cat can help you detect the rodent’s presence.  If your pet is focused on a certain area, scratching, barking, or looking anxious, it is highly possible that the rat is close at hand.  

Sightings of Live or Dead Rats

Since rats are social animals and reproduce rapidly, one dead or alive rat in your sight signifies that more of them are hiding nearby and that infestation is already underway.

Final Thoughts

Rats are indeed harmful animals especially if you consider the health risk brought about by leptospirosis and hantavirus diseases they spread.  They may even cause fire due to chewed electrical wires aside from other property damages.  All of these should drive us to take immediate action by seeking the help of professional pest control services to maintain a healthy and clutter-free environment at home.