Do you think your house may have fallen victim to a rodent infestation, but want to be 100% sure before taking action?
Then, read below for ten signs that rats or mice have invaded your home:
Rodent Infestation Sign #1 – A Foul Smell Under Your nose
Rats and mice, when they’re alive, don’t smell all that wonderful. So, you’ll be well aware of when one dies in your home because the stench will overpower your nostrils–and it won’t be for the faint of heart.
And if there’s a dead rat or mouse in your home, there’s a considerable risk that there are other live ones elsewhere in your home.
Rodent Infestation Sign #2 – Inexplicable Bite Marks
Rats and mice have a bit of oral fixation, and they aren’t overly picky about what they’ll chomp with those, sharp, cruel little teeth. As such, if you see chew marks on your baseboards or wires, you’re probably dealing with an infestation.
Rodent Infestation Sign #3 – Panicked Pets
Much like everybody else in the world, household pets don’t care for rats and mice–and will act erratically if the cringe-worthy rodents are in your home.
One sign is if your dog or cat is scratching walls. Either way, if you hire a pest technician, let them know where your pet has been acting the most off-kilter. The location gives them a better idea of where they can find the rodents.
Rodent Infestation Sign #4 – Your Home Will Be Inundated Via Droppings
Rodents have a passion for pooping anywhere and everywhere in your home. Rat droppings are around three-quarters of an inch and are small and dark brown. Mouse droppings are the same color but more minor.
Rodent Infestation Sign #5 – Your Home is Turning into Swiss Cheese
As if chew marks weren’t bad enough, rodents will gnaw holes and do real damage to thin walls and other such materials. These are intelligent creatures looking to create some extra entry and access points.
Rodent Infestation Sign #6 – You’ll Find Tiny Footprints
If you’re starting to have suspicions of a rodent infestation in your home, you’ll probably do some detective work before you commit to calling in a professional. Well, once you’ve found your magnifying glass, you’ll see tiny rat or mouse footprints in higher areas in your home that collect lots of dust.
Rodent Infestation Sign #7 – You’ll See Marks of Filth
Rats and mice are reprehensibly filthy creatures that collect every little bit of bacteria, dirt, and fatty oils they encounter. Therefore, they end up leaving nauseating grease marks throughout your home.
Rodent Infestation Sign #8 – Faintly Foul Odors
As discussed earlier, rodents don’t only smell bad when they’re dead. Their stink is no picnic when they’re alive either. If you notice a musky odor that won’t seem to go away, it might be time to call for pest control.
Furthermore, if the smell is worsening, so might be the infestation.
Rodent Infestation Sign #9 – Your Allergies Flare Up
The fur and droppings of rodents can lead to allergic reactions in homeowners.
While allergies to pests are often overlooked, almost all allergists believe that a home without pests helps offset symptoms.
Rodent Infestation Sign #10 – You hear Eerie Noises (And What to do if You Hear Sounds at Night)
While you’re trying to sleep, or catching some general quiet, you might start hearing gnawing, scratching, and scampering. It’s probably emanating from your attic, walls, or ceiling, and it’s most likely a rat or mouse.
Are you hearing those rodent noises at night, or have you experienced any of the other signs of rodent infestation? Then call Third Coast Home and Commercial Services for rodent control today at 281-713-0132. We’re offering inspections for your first visit and will help you knock out any nesting area in your house!