The most common rodents are rats and mice, they are known to carry a variety of diseases, many of which can be contracted just by unwittingly touching their urine or faeces. That’s not something that most people relish. But, it’s not just the ability to carry disease that makes rodents an issue in your home. They are also excellent at chewing through a variety of substances when needed. One thing that rodents appear to enjoy chewing is electrical wires. They gnaw the protective sheath off and use it for something.
Unfortunately, this leaves the electrical wires exposed. They can then create a spark, which can cause a short circuit. Users may get a nasty shock or the spark can even start a house fire.
That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs that you have rodents in your home and check to get hold of someone who can deal with them for you. It should be noted that you can deal with a rodent issue yourself but you may struggle to be certain you have eliminated them all. The professionals have the equipment and knowledge to ensure this is the case.
1. Droppings
Rats and mice tend to run next to the walls as this makes them feel safer. That’s not to say you won’t see them running straight across the floor, it depends on where the food is and how safe they feel. But, wherever they go, rodents tend to do their business while on the move. That means you’re likely to find rodent droppings that tell you there are rodents present.
Regularly inspect the darker areas of your room, such as under the sink and beneath cabinets and drawers. It’s not recommended to touch the droppings with your hands. But, noticing them tells you there is a rodent issue.
2. Marks on The Walls
As mentioned, rodents tend to stay next to the wall as they run. The more often they complete a specific run the more likely it is that they’ll stain the walls. The stains are a result of oils on their fur, which are left on the walls as they brush against them.
All you have to do is look at the walls and skirting balls. You’ll be able to see the marks they’ve left behind and get some help to deal with them.
3. Odor of Ammonia
Ammonia has a very distinct smell, you’re certain to notice it in your house, especially if you don’t have any pets of your own. Mice and rats tend to dribble as they run, leaving traces of urine everywhere. This emits a familiar and unpleasant smell, alerting you to a potential issue.
Rodents also mark things just to feel safer, as they are comfortable with their own smell. If you notice the aroma of floor markings, get professional assistance.
4. Noises
Rodents will live out of sight, perhaps in your walls, under the floors, or even in the loft. Wherever they are, they will generally come out when the house is quiet. However, just prior to them leaving their hiding spot, you’ll be able to hear them. It will sound like scratching inside your walls or floors and it will tell you there is a rodent issue.
You may even notice a hole in the drywall where the rodents have chewed their way into the space.
5. Gnawing
As mentioned, rodents are very good at gnawing things. In most cases, the items they gnaw won’t be noticeable. But, as the colony grows, they will become bolder and start gnawing at things that are more obvious. Keep an eye on all the low surfaces in your home, regardless of what they are made of. You’ll find teeth marks and holes that give away the presence of rodents in your home.
You should also seal all open food packets in containers. If you don’t, you may find that the open packets have been gnawed, which means you’ll have to throw them away.
6. Bait is Missing
It’s a good idea to put down some bait traps. There are a variety of options available but the principle is the same. You add something that will attract the rodents and then they are trapped. Whether the trap kills them or not is up to you. This is a great way of confirming you have a rodent issue. Of course, a trap won’t eliminate the issue, rodent colonies will be large. But, if you know there is one there will be more, it will be time to get the professionals to eliminate them all.
While you may prefer not to eliminate rodents, they have no place in your home and will be detrimental to your health and your wallet. Getting them taken care of by the professionals is the right thing to do.
Also read: So You’ve Seen a Rat: A Guide to Home Pest Control & Prevention
