Pests can wreak havoc before you even know they’re there. Rats can be especially problematic since they multiply quickly. If there’s a nest, you may have extensive structural damage before you have a chance to hire professional rodent control.

Rats are also disease carriers, which means residents’ health is at risk. Rodents dying in the walls also pose health problems, as do fleas and other insects rats may bring in with them. To keep your family safe, you need to be proactive in keeping these pests away.

What Attracts Rats to Houses?

When rats seek a new place to nest, they’re looking for three things:

• Shelter
• Food
• Water

Unfortunately, human habitations offer these in abundance. Certain plants, landscaping and smells attract these rodents, which then find their way into your home via chimneys, roofs and basements.

All animals need water, and if recent droughts have eliminated natural sources, critters may approach man-made alternatives. A leaky faucet, uncovered pool, full birdbath or outside water dish are prime targets.

Kitchen gardens are another major attraction for rats. To wild animals, these fruits and vegetables are a feast. Even fruit-bearing trees can fall prey.

Finally, rats are attracted by strong food and waste odours. These smells signal the presence of food.

How Can You Prevent an Infestation?

Keeping rats out of your house is much simpler than getting rid of them. To ensure your home stays rodent-free, regularly clean your house. Don’t let garbage accumulate inside or outside, and store food in air-tight containers. 

Treat your yard with the same care. Trim overgrown shrubs, as these are common nesting places for rodents. Additionally, don’t leave pet food outside. If you have dogs, pick up their waste every day.

If you want to actively drive away rats, you can do so by planting mint. Both mice and rats avoid the smell, making it an effective deterrent. Scheduling a yearly pest control visit is another great option, as companies can create invisible barriers between your home and pests.

What Are Signs You Have Rats?

Unfortunately, it may not be immediately apparent that you have a rodent problem. Rats are intelligent and can navigate homes through interior structures such as support beams and plumbing. If you suspect rats lurking in your residence, look for unexplained smudge marks and droppings.

You should also trust your ears. Do you hear strange scratching or scurrying at night? It may be rats. These rodents are nocturnal, which means they’re most active after the sun goes down. You may hear their movements in the walls or your attic.

Also, keep an eye out for teeth marks. Rat’s teeth continuously grow, so they’re compelled to gnaw on various materials to wear them down. These rodents are known to chew on the following:

• Trees
• Wires
• Wooden structures

Why Hire Professional Rodent Control?

If you have a rat infestation, you may be tempted to tackle the problem yourself. However, this can lead to other issues. For example, if you leave out rat poison, the targeted animal may crawl somewhere unreachable before dying.

Professionals know how to lure rats into the open, where they can safely eliminate them. Pest control experts can also identify and remove nests, as well as seal areas where rodents can get in. That way, the rats are unlikely to return.

Truly Nolen provides four seasons pest control, so you’re protected year-round. We can handle rodent removal as well as prevention services. Additionally, we can rid your home of wasps, spiders, carpenter ants and bed bugs. Your house should be a haven, and with our team’s expertise, you can relax without worrying about creepy critters. To request an inspection, contact us online or give us a call!