Recognizing the early signs of a mouse or rat infestation in your home is essential. These rodents can cause a lot of damage, carry diseases, and contaminate food. The sooner you identify a rodent infestation, the easier and less expensive it is to deal with. Often, the best solution to eliminate these rodents is to use professional mice and rat control services.

Signs of a rodent infestation

Rodents often seek out warm, hidden areas in your home, like the garage, attics, basements, and behind walls, kitchen cabinets, or even appliances. Spotting a mouse or rat infestation early can help prevent severe damage and health issues. Here are some key signs that you may have rats and mice in your home:

  • Droppings near food sources or nesting areas
  • Gnaw marks on furniture, wires, or food packaging
  • Unusual pet behavior or agitation
  • Scratching sounds from within walls or ceilings at night
  • Nesting materials like shredded paper or fabric found in hidden areas
  • Foul odors stemming from hidden or hard-to-reach areas
  • Sightings of live or dead rodents in your home

If you notice signs of a mouse or rat infestation in your house, it's crucial to immediately call a pest control professional, like Terminix, to address the problem.

Rat Poop 

What causes a rodent infestation?

Rodents are attracted by easily accessible food scraps, pet food, and even garbage, which can all be factors that cause a rat or mouse infestation in homes. Tiny openings in the home's exterior, such as gaps in windows or doors, cracks in the foundation, or spaces around pipes, are enough for them to squeeze through due to their flexible skeletons. Once inside, they can breed rapidly, with mice producing five to seven offspring every three weeks and rats around six to eight. This rapid reproduction can quickly lead to a full-blown mouse or rat infestation, making it essential to promptly address any signs of rodent activity.

How to clean up and get rid of an infestation

If you're facing a mouse or rat infestation in your house, immediate action is crucial to prevent the growth of the population of rats and mice and minimize the health risks and damage they cause. The first step is eliminating food sources, sealing entry points, and setting traps. However, these methods can only provide temporary relief. For a comprehensive and lasting solution, professional rodent control services are the best option. With Terminix, you're not just getting rid of a rodent infestation; you're protecting your home and family from the dangers associated with these pests. Get started with an inspection!

Mouse poking out of wall 

Preventing future infestations

The best way to tackle a mouse or rat infestation is by preventing these pests from entering your home in the first place. Here are some preventive measures you can take to keep your home protected:

  1. Seal up holes inside and outside the home to prevent entry.
  2. Keep your kitchen clean and store food in sealed containers.
  3. Dispose of garbage regularly with a securely fitted lid.
  4. Remove potential rodent nesting sites by keeping yards and gardens clean and tidy.
  5. Keep trash cans as far away from the house as possible.

Regular inspections and treatments by professional pest control can help ensure that rodents don't find your home. Schedule a rodent inspection to start protecting your home from rats and mice!