Nobody wants to hear the dreaded scratching in the walls or find chewed open food packaging in their home. But for Los Angeles homeowners, these signs of a rat infestation are all too common, which is why Kat’s Pest Solutions offers high-quality rat control options. Our Los Angeles pest control is designed to take care of all infestations, no matter the size. Call today to learn more about our options.
How To Identify A Rat Problem On Your Property
There are two types of rats commonly found in Los Angeles: roof rats and Norway rats. These two species can look similar; they have large, elongated bodies. Rats are typically brown or black with long, scaly tails. They can be distinguished from mice because of their size and body shape. Mice are only a few inches long and have round bodies, while rats are bigger and longer.
Roof rats live in colonies with other rats. They’re often found in upper parts of buildings—like in attics or roofs. Norway rats are also social animals, but they gravitate toward the ground. They’re more likely to be found living in basements.
There are a few signs of a rat infestation to look out for. You may or may not see the rats themselves; they tend to stay hidden as much as possible. Rats are excellent at climbing and hiding and will do their best not to be caught. Instead, keep an eye out for bite marks on furniture, food packaging, and other surfaces around your home. You might find piles of rat droppings left behind. When rats run around, they’ll leave footprints and sometimes oily spots where their fur rubs against walls. You’ll likely notice damage to food packaging and the food itself since rats will scavenge for things to eat. You might also hear scratching or chewing noises coming from the walls or attic of your home.
Rats Can Damage Property And Spread Dangerous Diseases
Many issues come with a rat infestation. For one, they will cause damage to your home. Rodents have strong teeth that they use to bite through food packaging, drywall, and even electrical cables. They also burrow and build nests, which can damage other items around your home, including insulation in walls. And as they scavenge for and infest food, they can spread many diseases.
A few of the diseases carried by rats include leptospirosis, rat-bite fever, tularemia, jaundice, and salmonellosis. They can also bring extra pests with them, such as fleas and ticks. Some people experience asthma or allergy symptoms from the presence of rats.
Effective Tips To Prevent Rats From Returning To Your Property
It’s important to take steps around your home to keep rats away. Setting up your home for rat prevention and exclusion just might make the difference.
Try taking these steps:
- Seal any cracks or holes in the walls
- Eliminate other entry points, such as poorly-fitting doors
- Keep firewood and yard debris away from the house
- Store food in airtight containers
- Dispose of trash properly in animal-proof bins
- Repair any moisture issues around the house
Because rats can be pretty big, some homeowners leave open gaps that they think are too small for a rat to fit through. Rats are actually able to squeeze into tight spaces, and they’re able to widen holes when they need to. Make sure there are no holes in the walls or gaps under doors so rats aren’t able to enter your home.
Piles of firewood or yard debris can become homes for rats. When those are too close to your house, it’s easier for rats to travel inside. Keep these piles as far away as possible, and try to avoid having debris build up in your yard.
One of the biggest reasons that rats enter Los Angeles homes is to find food. And they’ll do everything they can to get into yours. Move food out of plastic bags and cardboard boxes into solid, airtight containers. This will make it impossible for rats to access it. When you’re disposing of garbage, especially food waste, make sure the receptacles are also inaccessible to rats. All trash cans should have animal-proof lids installed on them to keep rats out.
Moisture issues around your home, such as excess humidity and pooling water, can create an ideal environment for rats. Making these repairs can help keep rats away because your home won’t be as comfortable for them.
These rat prevention tips are great before an infestation moves in. But if you’re seeing signs of rats around your home, it might be time to call a Los Angeles rodent control professional.
The Safe And Effective Way To Get Rid Of Rats
At Kat’s Pest Solutions, we believe in effective and cost-effective rodent control. Our pest wranglers will perform an inspection of your Los Angeles home to see where the problem areas are and how we can best treat the infestation. Then we’ll work with you to decide on the best course of action to get rid of the rats. We also offer removal of dead animals, sanitation services, and rodent exclusion work. Reach out today for help and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Los Angeles.