How to Fight a Rat Infestation

The idea of rats in your home is not something that should be taken lightly. ratRodents are unsanitary, and can cause expensive damage to your home in a short period of time. Here are some things you need to know if you suspect that your home has been invaded by rats.

Know the warning signs

Common indicators of a rat issue include finding droppings in or around your house, evidence of gnawing around baseboards or anything wooden, hearing the light noise of their footsteps in your attics or walls, or smelling a musky odor throughout the house.

Stay up-to-date on repairs and maintenance

Resolving a rat problem is just as much about preventing it as treating is. Sealing up holes, cracks, or other access points in exterior and interior walls can limit access to your home. Rats can squeeze their bodies through any gap that their heads will fit through, which is often less than an inch in diameter. Keeping your garbage cans tightly closed and eliminating sources of outdoor water will help make your property seem less attractive to rats, as well.

Eliminate roof access

The two most common rat species that cause problems are the roof rat and the Norway rat. Both of these critters are excellent climbers, and will use that skill to try and find a way into your home. The best way to keep that from happening is to make sure there are no tree branches touching your roof or extending over the top of your house.

Store food appropriately

Using airtight containers to store leftovers and other foods in your kitchen, as well as using heavy-duty trash receptacles will keep rats from using your home as an easy food source. Storing foods in rooms that are not easy for rats to access will further help prevent your home from becoming their all-you-can-eat buffet.

Hire a professional to remove rats for you

At Critter ControlĀ® , we understand that having wild animals inside your home and on your property can be stressful. Because mice can reproduce at alarming rates, you want to call us as soon as possible to avoid having to deal with a more extensive infestation. For more information or to schedule a free home inspection, call us today at 305-258-3587 or fill out a form online.