Rats: Getting Rid Of A Rodent Problem

Rats are nothing to mess around with. At the first signs of these disease-carrying rodents, it is time to call a professional. A rat infestation is far more serious than a mouse problem, and potentially far more dangerous. Before you attempt to handle these issues on your own, know what you are getting in to.

Some tips when getting rid of rats in your home include:

Act fast. A female Brown Rat can produce as many as 2,000 babies per year, which demonstrates the need to act fast when you have a rat issue in your home. The problem with rats is less-related to being bitten by these often-intimidating rodents, but more regarding the serious risk of respiratory illness that can occur when exposed to rat urine and droppings. In no time, a single-sighting can become a terrible infestation, which will expose you to a gamut of germs. 

Be vigilant. Be vigilant in watching for signs of an issue; do you hear strange scratching sounds at night? Rats are noisy and do damage inside the walls of your home, including gnawing on electrical wires, insulation materials, and plumbing, which can have costly consequences. Watch for droppings, greasy marks on walls, or gnaw-marks on carpets, woodwork, or bedding.

Choose your weapon. When it comes to traps, you have a few different options. Depending on whether you are up to the challenge of dealing with snap-traps, this might be the most effective and efficient approach. Electronic traps are lauded for being more humane, while glue-traps are more controversial. Know that whatever type you use, you will subsequently need to remove the rodent from the trap.

Handle gingerly. This is where it gets tricky; removing rodents from traps involves some handling, which can be potentially dangerous. Rats will bite when they feel under attack or stressed-out, which makes this a particularly tricky situation.

Protect yourself. Protect yourself with long-sleeves and gloves to help prevent bites, which can carry disease and 'rat bite fever.' A safer and more effective solution is to contact a professional exterminator who specializes in rodent removal and rat infestations. When you weigh the costs, it is most-pragmatic to seek professional assistance at the first sign of a problem.

When it comes to rats, why risk it? If you suspect a rat problem in your home or business, don't mess around; call a exterminator who takes care of rat removal. Don't give rats the chance to breed and take over your home, be proactive and seek the expertise of a professional.