4 Signs You Have a Rat or Mouse Pest Control Problem

Rats. Why did it have to be rats? Professional pest control Boca Raton services for rodent infestations are common enough in South Florida. They're just as important as taking care of roaches and other insect infestations.

Why? Because, as you probably know, rodents carry fleas and ticks. And even diseases that can harm your pets and loved ones. They burrow holes and create nests in the infrastructure of your house and can even damage its integrity if left unchecked.

The first thing a pest control expert is going to do is determine what kind of rodent infestation you have: be it rats, mice, or something else. Then they'll be able to decide on the right course of action they need to take to clear them from your home. If you think you might have a rodent problem in your house, here are some signs to look out for.

What are the Signs I Have a Rat or Mouse Infestation?

Droppings

Of course, one of the most obvious signs you’ve got a rodent on the loose is if you see its droppings. The size shape of them will indicate the kind of rodent you’re dealing with (Norway rat, roof rat, mice, etc.).

Looking at the droppings will also tell a pest control specialist how bad your infestation is, where the nest likely is, and where they're eating. Typically, that's where you keep your food.

You'll be able to tell if it's a new infestation if the pellets are dark and moist (fresh) or dried out and slightly gray (old). Whatever the case, it's best to get a professional in to take a look. They'll be able to figure out where the rodents are getting in, and how you can prevent them from entering your house in the future.

Gnawing Marks & Nests

Rats and mice gnaw on a variety of materials in your home. This includes cables and wires, cardboard, baseboards, newspapers, boxes, even fabrics, and clothing. Part of the reason behind this is they're creating their nests out of whatever they can find.

But mice and rats actually have to chew constantly because their teeth never stop growing. If rodents didn’t stop grinding down their teeth, they would keep growing at an inwards angle until the rat could no longer chew or eat correctly.

In short, the smaller the gnawing bites you see, the smaller the rodent. Large bite marks indicate you probably have rats, not mice.

Odor

The smell of a rodent infestation isn't pleasant. It usually has a musky odor that mostly comes from their urine. If you have pets, they'll probably be able to smell the source of this because of the powerful scent.

This is especially true when a rodent dies somewhere in your house. That smell will only become more potent over time. Hiring a pest control Boca Raton expert to check your home will not only put an end to the infestation but also make sure it doesn't repeat a second time.

Noises in Your Walls

If you’ve been hearing scuttling through the inside of your walls or squeaking noises at all through the day or night, that’s a pretty good indication of rodents living in the infrastructure of your house. Rats and mice are nocturnal, so you’ll most likely hear them at night.

If you have pets, definitely pay attention to their behavior. Not only will they smell where the infestation is coming from, but they’ll be able to hear them even better than you. They’re hunters, after all. Dogs or cats are likely to smell or scratch at the area where they hear prey movement.

Ready to Take Care of Your Rodent Infestation in Boca Raton?

Nobody wants to deal with rats. They present numerous health hazards, as well as safety hazards and damage to your home. Get a professional, so you don't have to put yourself or your family at risk!

Hey! George Mendoza is a passionate blogger and writer, loves blogging on business and home improvements, career, self-employment, and business-related stuff.