Termite Infestation And Treatment

How to Spot a Rat Infestation in Your Home—and What to Do About It

image of a rat

Rats love to inhabit homes and surrounding yard areas.

Rats are extremely sneaky and can easily enter a home undetected.


There are, however, a few ways to detect if you have a rat infestation in your home. 

Look for Droppings

One way is to look for rat droppings. Rat droppings are small, black, and rod-shaped. They are also about the size of a grain of rice.

image of a rat

Rats hangout under your house, too.

Listen for Rats

Another way to tell if you have rats is to listen for them.


Rats make a high-pitched squealing noise when they are scared or in pain.


If you hear this noise, it's likely that you have rats. 

Look for Footprints

Lastly, you can look for footprints or tail trails. Rats leave footprints and tail trails in the dust and dirt as they walk around. If you see any of these signs, it's time to take action and get rid of the rats!

The Dangers of a Home Rat Infestation

Diseases

Rats can pose a serious danger to your home and family. They can carry diseases, such as the bubonic plague, which can be deadly. 

Damage

They can also damage your property and chew through wiring, which can lead to electrical fires.

image of a rat

Rats will chew into electrical cords, cables, and wiring.

It is therefore important to take action quickly if you think you have a rat infestation and get rid of them as soon as possible.

How to Treat a Rat Infestation

Traps

You can use traps to catch the rats.


There are several types of traps that can be used, including snap traps, glue traps, and live traps. 


Just be very careful that your small children or pets cannot get anywhere near your traps.

image of a rat in a trap

Rats don't have to be killed with a snap-trap. They can be caught in a rat cage.

Rodenticides

Rodenticides to kill the rats. Rodenticides are poisons that kill rodents. Be very careful when using these products and follow all instructions carefully. As with traps, ensure your small children and pets cannot get anywhere near the rodenticides you've chosen to treat your rat problem with.

Rat-Proof Entrance Points

Seal up any entrances that the rats may use to enter your home. This will help keep them from coming back in future.

A Better Way to Treat a Rat Infestation

Hiring a professional exterminator is the smartest thing to do if you have a rat infestation.


Licensed exterminators have the experience and expertise to get rid of rats quickly and effectively. 


They will also identify any potential entrances that the rats may use to enter your home and seal them up to prevent future invasions.


Van Hooser Enterprises stands by ready to take care of your home rat infestation quickly.

image of eric van hooser rat exterminator

Eric Van Hooser (Head rat exterminator at Van Hooser Enterprises pest control company in San Jose CA)

What to Do Now

For rat infestations in your home in the greater San Jose area, it’s best to leave treatment to professional rat exterminators - Van Hooser Enterprises. Call or click below...or use our contact page.

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FAQs about Rat Infestation and Treatment

Q: What are the signs of a rat infestation in my home?

A: Signs of a rat infestation include seeing live or dead rats, finding droppings or urine stains, hearing scratching or scampering noises, noticing gnaw marks on food packages or structures, and discovering nests made from shredded materials.

Q: How do rats enter my home, and what attracts them?

A: Rats can enter your home through small gaps or cracks around doors, windows, pipes, or vents, as well as through holes in your home's foundation. They are attracted to food sources, warmth, and shelter, making your home an ideal environment, especially during colder months.

Q: How can I prevent rat infestations in my home?

A: To prevent rat infestations, seal any gaps or cracks around your home, store food in airtight containers, maintain proper sanitation and cleanliness, eliminate clutter that could provide hiding spots, and remove outdoor sources of food or shelter, such as garbage and debris.

Q: What are the most effective methods for treating a rat infestation?

A: The most effective methods for treating a rat infestation include using snap traps, live traps, or rodenticides. It's important to place traps strategically near signs of rat activity and to use appropriate bait, such as peanut butter or cheese. If infestations persist or are severe, consider hiring a professional exterminator.

Q: Are DIY rat treatments safe and effective, or should I hire a professional rat exterminator?

A: DIY rat treatments can be adequate for minor infestations, but proper application and safety precautions are necessary, especially when using rodenticides. If infestations are severe or persist despite DIY efforts, hiring a professional exterminator is recommended for more efficient and long-lasting results.