Rat infestations are a global menace to residential and commercial properties. Excluding Antarctica, there are no rat-free zones on Earth. These rodents can carry diseases, contaminate food, and damage property. According to the National Pest Management Association, rodents (including rats and mice) are responsible for an estimated $19 billion in property damage annually in the United States.
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While some homeowners attempt to tackle rat infestations independently, eradicating them can often be challenging. Calling a professional exterminator may be the best path to eliminating the infestation and preventing future problems.
This article will discuss when to call pest control companies for rats and the benefits of professional pest control services.
When Should You Call an Exterminator For Rats?
Rats spread diseases and contaminate food, and their feeding habits can cause significant damage to buildings in a short amount of time. It’s vital to take action as soon as possible to prevent their aggressive foraging from causing further harm.
Their nesting habits and elusive nature can make them difficult to detect, so if you suspect an infestation, professional pest control advice is the best action.
Look for the warning signs below to identify a potential rat problem.
When You Notice Bad Smells
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In addition to carrying diseases, one of the biggest concerns with rats is the possibility of a dead rat decomposing inside your home. The odor produced by a decomposing rat is indescribably unpleasant and can confirm a rat or mouse infestation on your property.
Unfortunately, it can be challenging to locate the source of the odor as rats are intelligent nocturnal creatures that nest in tight spaces, such as cracks, holes, and even below the foundation. Their natural body odor, feces, and urine also emit a pungent smell.
Investigate any suspicious smells thoroughly and see if you can locate any visible carcasses. The affected area should be adequately ventilated to reduce the smell, but deodorants or odor-neutralizers may be the only options in severe cases.
You should seek professional advice before using unfamiliar chemicals to ensure safety.
When You Notice Strange Noises
Rats are known for their rapid breeding, with their offspring reaching sexual maturity within six weeks. Female rats can become fertile every three weeks, leading to litters of 6-20 babies. This results in a large, noisy colony of mischievous rodents.
If you hear hissing and gnawing sounds in your basement after dark, that’s a good sign of a rat infestation. Chirps and squeaks are also common noises that can indicate a rat problem in your home.
When You Notice Odd Pet Behavior
Pets have much more advanced sensory organs than humans, so they often detect the presence of pests like rats, mice, or rodents on your property before you do. If you notice your pet barking, hissing, or displaying sudden interest in corners of your house, it may be time to inspect your home for a possible mouse problem.
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But don’t rely on your pets to handle the rat infestation for you, as rodents carry several diseases that can put your pet’s health at risk.
When You Notice Droppings
Rat and mouse droppings on your property are a clear indication of a severe rodent infestation in your home. Look for shiny, dark gray, half-inch-long mice droppings with pointed edges, usually found in clusters in the following areas:
- Kitchen and pantry areas, including cabinets, shelves, drawers, behind appliances, and near food packages and pet food
- Exposed wall cracks, pipelines, holes, and air vents
- Crawl spaces, basements, and attics
- Bathroom cabinets, utility closets, and trash areas
When You Notice Damage to Walls
Rodents have no regard for anything in their path. If they decide to invade your property, walls cannot stop rodent activity. Their powerful incisors can chew through almost anything, including plastic, cement, wires, bricks, wood, and even soft metals. A full-blown rat infestation could significantly damage your walls, including the insulation and wires inside.
Look for palm-sized cavities that the rat colony uses to gain access to food and water resources. You might also hear them scratching inside your walls during the night.
Sealing all holes, keeping the area free of trash, and paying attention to out-of-sight corners are crucial to discouraging rats from making your property their new home.
Professional Rat Removal With Budget Brothers
Looking for a professional pest control company? Look no further than Budget Brothers! Our team of experienced pest control specialists can help you get rid of rodent infestations quickly and effectively.
Contact us today to schedule a mice control inspection, and let us help you keep your home or business pest-free. Don’t let pest problems take over your property — call Budget Brothers for fast, reliable mice exterminator services.
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