Rats and mice are two common pests that can invade your home and cause significant damage to your property and health. These rodents are known for carrying diseases, contaminating food, and causing structural damage. If left unchecked, they can quickly multiply and become a major infestation. In this blog post, we will discuss how to prevent rat and mice infestations and what to do if you have a current infestation.
Differences between Rats and Mice
Rats and mice are both rodents, but they have distinct differences. Rats are larger and more aggressive than mice, with a stronger bite force. Mice, on the other hand, are smaller and more timid. They can easily fit through small openings and cracks in your home’s foundation, walls, or roof. Both rats and mice can cause significant damage to your home and health if left unchecked.
How Rats and Mice Infest a Home
Rats and mice can infest a home through small openings or cracks in the walls, floors, or foundation. They can also climb up gutters, trees, and overhanging branches to get into your attic or roof. Once inside, they will create nests in warm, dark, and secluded areas such as attics, basements, or crawlspaces.
The Importance of Professional Pest Control
If you suspect you have a rat or mice infestation, it is essential to have a professional pest control company like New Day Pest inspect your home. They can identify the signs of infestation, determine the extent of the problem, and create a plan for proper exclusion and treatment. Regular inspections and preventative measures can help avoid future infestations.
Ways to Prevent Rat and Mice Infestations
Prevention is key to avoiding rat and mice infestations. Here are some tips to keep your home rodent-free:
- Seal any openings or cracks in your home’s foundation, walls, or roof. Rats and mice can enter your home through a hole as small as a quarter.
- Store food in airtight containers and keep your kitchen clean and clutter-free. Rodents are attracted to food sources, so keeping your kitchen clean and tidy can help prevent infestations.
- Dispose of trash regularly and keep it in tightly sealed bins. Trash cans and dumpsters can be a significant attractant for rodents.
- Trim trees and bushes away from your home’s exterior. Rodents can use tree branches to climb onto your roof and access your home.
- Keep your home clean and well-maintained to avoid attracting rodents. Rodents are attracted to clutter and mess, so keeping your home clean and tidy can help prevent infestations.
Stopping a Current Infestation
If you suspect that you have a rat or mice infestation in your home, it’s important to take action immediately. Here are some steps you can take to stop a current infestation:
- Call a Professional Pest Control Company
The best way to get rid of a rodent infestation is to call a professional pest control company. A professional will be able to identify the type of rodent and the extent of the infestation, and will develop a customized plan to get rid of the rodents and prevent them from coming back.
- Set Traps
In addition to calling a professional, you can also set traps to capture and kill rats and mice. There are a variety of traps available, including snap traps, glue traps, and live traps. Be sure to place the traps in areas where rodents are likely to travel, such as along walls and near food sources.
- Seal Up Entry Points
In addition to setting traps, it’s important to seal up any entry points where rodents may be entering your home. Use materials like steel wool and caulk to fill in cracks and holes, and make sure that all doors and windows are tightly sealed.
- Keep Your Home Clean
As mentioned earlier, rodents are attracted to food sources, so it’s important to keep your home clean and tidy. Be sure to clean up spills and crumbs promptly, store food in airtight containers, and take out the trash regularly. A clean home is less attractive to rodents and can help prevent a future infestation.
Rats and Mice are a Problem – New Day Pest are the Answer
Rats and mice can be a serious problem for homeowners, but there are steps you can take to prevent and stop infestations. By understanding the differences between rats and mice, being aware of the signs of infestation, and taking proactive steps to keep your home clean and free of entry points, you can keep your home rodent-free. If you do suspect a rodent infestation, be sure to call New Day Pest control at (360)-506-9603 to help you get rid of the problem quickly and effectively.