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Rats gnaw on and destroy various objects, including electrical cables, pipes, furniture, storage containers, and vases – causing potential fire hazards and other damage
Rats can transmit diseases such as leptospirosis, salmonella, and hantavirus. (News18 Telugu)
Are you tired of trying to get rid of rats in your house? Are they damaging your clothes, wires, and books? Identifying and removing rats in time is crucial because once they have settled in and found a consistent food source, removing them becomes much harder.
Rats cause physical damage by gnawing through wood, pipes, and cables, and they can also transmit diseases such as leptospirosis, salmonella, and hantavirus.
Signs To Spot Rats
They are often found in cooler areas at night or places where food is accessible. Although they can be difficult to detect, several signs can help you identify their presence.
Rats emit a strong ammonia-like smell, which can be quite distinct. They often make scurrying or scratching noises, if you hear such sounds, especially near walls or floors, it may indicate their presence. Rats also leave behind approximately 40 droppings per day. These droppings are small, dark, and about 14 mm long, typically found near entry points or nesting areas.
As they move along walls or pathways, rats leave greasy smear marks from their bodies. These marks can be visible on walls and furniture. In dusty areas, they leave footprints. To spot them clearly, shine a light at a low angle. For confirmation, you can sprinkle some flour or talcum powder overnight and check for fresh prints the next morning.
Rats gnaw on and destroy various objects, including electrical cables, pipes, furniture, storage containers, and vases – causing potential fire hazards and other damage. However, there are simple preventive measures that can help keep rats out of your home before they become a serious problem.
Measures To Remove Rats
- Always keep your bins closed as rubbish attracts rats due to the scent of leftover food.
- Feeding birds in the garden can attract rats, so it’s better to feed them in small quantities using bird feeders, rather than scattering food on the ground.
- Rats can squeeze through even the tiniest holes. So, inspect your home thoroughly and seal gaps around pipes, sheds, or foundations. Block any potential entry points to prevent them from gaining access. Seal gaps around garden walls, sheds, and fencing.
- Pets like dogs and cats can naturally scare off rats. Even foxes act as predators – so encouraging their presence (where safe) can help.
- Rats are attracted to unclean spaces, ripe fruits, and leftover food. Keeping your garden clean and free of rubbish and potential nesting spots is essential.
- Interestingly, rats dislike the smell of peppermint oil. Placing jars or cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil around corners or along walls can help repel them.
If the infestation worsens, it is advisable to contact professional pest control services. Experts can use appropriate methods to eliminate rats effectively, helping you prevent further damage and health risks.
