Seeing a rat running through your home is enough to make anyone scream, but finding out that the chances of having a single rat are really low is even worse. Rats are social animals that stick together, and they breed rapidly, so a small invasion can quickly become overwhelming. If you struggle with getting these pests out of your house, you have come to the right place.
We’ll start by describing the signs rats leave around the house to help you correctly identify them and review the health risks they pose to your family and pets. We’ll also provide prevention measures you can use to keep them out. Read on to learn how to achieve successful rat control in Western Massachusetts with the experts at American Pest Solutions.
Signs of Rats in the House: Identifying Rat Activity
Rats are comfortable relying on us to provide food, water, and shelter, but these nocturnal rodents try to stay away from people. The following list includes common signs of a rat infestation to help you catch a problem sooner:
- Rat droppings are between 1/2 and 3/4 of an inch long, with blunt or pointed ends depending on the species.
- You might see gnaw marks on belongings, furniture, pipes, electrical wiring and cables, and through walls and cabinets.
- Hearing scratching, hissing, or squeaking noises in the walls or coming from the attic.
- Pets often detect rodents before people do and react by pawing at walls, sniffing walls and corners, or barking.
If you notice any of these signs, it is time to take action before the problem worsens. Contact us today at American Pest Solutions for help getting rid of rats and preventing another infestation.
Health Risks Posed by Rats: Understanding the Hazards to Humans
When rats invade your home, they pose a significant risk to your health and well-being. Rat droppings and urine contaminate food and surfaces, spreading illnesses like leptospirosis, salmonellosis, and jaundice. Their presence in your home can also cause people to have allergy symptoms and asthma attacks.
These pests also carry fleas and ticks that can make your family sick, and they can transmit rat-bite fever through a bite or scratch, so it is best to leave rat control to the professionals. Contact us at American Pest Solutions to learn more about how our services can help eliminate these pests and protect your family from another infestation.
Rat Prevention: Simple Measures to Keep Rats Out
After we eliminate your rat problem, you’ll want to take steps to ensure they won’t be returning. Here are some of our best tips to keep rats away from your property and out of the house:
- Store food in airtight containers, including pet food.
- Seal holes or gaps on the exterior of your home with silicone caulk or steel wool.
- Store firewood and debris piles well away from the structure.
- Cut tree limbs away from the house and roofline.
- Take the garbage out frequently and store it in animal-proof receptacles.
The experts at American Pest Solutions are here to help you get rid of rats and prevent another invasion. Contact us today to learn more about our rat and rodent control solutions.
Call the Rat Control Experts: Ensuring Safe and Effective Elimination
The safest and most effective way to eliminate and keep rats out is to work with the experts at American Pest Solutions. Contact us today to learn more about our rat control services or to get your evaluation and get back to having a safe, rat-free home.