Rat Infestation
Rats are some of the most common critters to invade homes in Dallas, and are some of the trickiest to catch as well. With rat infestations on the rise, it’s important to know the signs so you can catch any potential issue as early as possible. Things like scratching from inside your walls, foul odors, or droppings usually mean that it’s time to call for professional help.
The rat removal experts at Critter Control inDallas have over three decades of experience and are standing by to help.
Signs of a Rat Infestation
Rats will leave clear signs of their presence:
- Droppings: This is often the most noticeable and definitive sign. Rat droppings are typically dark, pellet-shaped, and about 1/2 to 3/4 inch long, resembling a large grain of rice. They are commonly found near food sources, in cupboards, under sinks, and along walls. Fresh droppings will appear moist and shiny, while older ones will be dry and crumbly.
- Gnaw Marks: Rats constantly gnaw to keep their ever-growing teeth in check and to create access points. Look for gnaw marks on wood (like baseboards, door frames, and furniture), plastic containers, food packaging, wires, and pipes. Rat gnaw marks are usually larger and rougher than those left by mice, often appearing as paired grooves.
- Scratching Noises and Other Sounds: Rats are primarily nocturnal, so you’re most likely to hear them at night. Listen for scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds coming from within walls, ceilings, attics, basements, or crawl spaces. These noises indicate active movement and can be a strong sign of a hidden infestation.
Listen to Rat Noises
How We Get Rid of Rat Infestations
Because rat issues are on the rise, we have developed and perfected a four-step method for handling infestations.
- Inspect—When you set up your free consultation, we thoroughly inspect your home or business to assess the severity of the infestation and determine where the critters are entering.
- Remove – Our next step is to remove the rats. We use various methods to remove the rodents from your home, and will always choose the safest and most effective option for your specific situation.
- Repair—In addition to removing the rodents from your home, our technicians are trained in cleanup, repair, and restoration. When we’re finished, it will look like nothing happened.
- Exclude – Our final step ensures that the offending critters cannot return. We seal off entry points like cracks or holes in walls, or ventilation ducts so they can’t re-enter later on.
If you’ve noticed the signs of a rat infestation, give us a call immediately. Rats reproduce quickly so the longer you wait, the more potential for damage there is. Call Critter Control® of Dallas today at 817-222-1101 to set up your free home inspection.