SIGNS OF A RODENT INFESTATION AND WHAT TO DO

SUMMARY
Rodent infestations can cause serious health risks and property damage. This guide explains the key warning signs of a rodent problem and provides effective steps you can take to address it quickly and safely.

FEATURES

• Droppings and urine: Small, dark pellets and stains are clear indicators.

• Gnaw marks: Chewed wires, furniture, or food packaging signal rodent activity.

• Strange noises: Scratching or scurrying sounds in walls or ceilings.

• Nests and burrows: Shredded paper, fabric, or insulation in hidden areas.

• Tracks and grease marks: Smudge trails left along walls and baseboards.

• Unusual pet behavior: Pets may act restless if they sense rodents.

GUIDE DESCRIPTION 
Rodents are among the most common household pests, and their presence can go unnoticed until the problem grows severe. Learning the signs of a rodent infestation helps you act quickly before it becomes unmanageable.

One of the most obvious signs is the presence of droppings and urine stains. Mouse droppings are small, about the size of a grain of rice, while rat droppings are larger. These are often found near food sources, under sinks, or in storage areas.

Another clear indicator is gnaw marks. Rodents must chew constantly to keep their teeth from overgrowing. You may notice chew marks on wires, wood, furniture, or food packaging. This damage can also create fire hazards if electrical wires are compromised.

Rodents are often heard before they are seen. Strange noises, such as scratching, squeaking, or scurrying in walls, attics, or ceilings at night, suggest their presence.

They also build nests and burrows from shredded paper, fabric, insulation, or other soft materials. These are usually hidden in dark, quiet places such as behind appliances, in attics, or inside wall voids.

Tracks and grease marks are another giveaway. As rodents travel along the same paths, their fur leaves behind oily smudges and dirt trails along walls and baseboards. You may also notice footprints or tail marks in dusty areas.

Additionally, pets may alert you to rodent activity. Cats and dogs often become restless or focused on specific areas, such as behind cabinets or under furniture, if they sense rodents.

If you confirm an infestation, the next step is to take action immediately. Start by sealing entry points with steel wool, caulk, or hardware cloth to prevent more rodents from entering. Then, use humane traps or snap traps to remove existing rodents. Avoid glue traps, as they are inhumane.

Keep your home clean and free of attractants by storing food in sealed containers, promptly cleaning up crumbs, and securing garbage bins. For severe infestations, contact a professional pest control service to ensure the problem is eliminated safely and thoroughly.

By recognizing early warning signs and acting quickly, you can protect your home and health from the risks associated with rodent infestations.

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