Posts Tagged ‘dangerous’

Rats & Mice: Cute and Cuddly? Or Dirty and Dangerous?

Tuesday, December 15th, 2009

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Despite all the cartoons and kids’ shows featuring cute and cuddly mice and rats, these critters are actually one of the least welcome pests in any home.  Because they tend to live in unsanitary places, they can carry diseases into your house or place of business putting your health at risk.

Rats can live and breed anywhere in your home including inside drains; inside your flooring, walls and attic; in your garage; or even under furniture or in closets that don’t get used frequently. They thrive in areas where they have easy access to food and water, so keeping your home clean and any possible food sources sealed up is key to controlling and preventing an infestation. 

If you suspect you may have rats or mice on your property, look for these signs:

  • Droppings
    Rats and mice both leave droppings everywhere they go.  These appear to be small dark pellets that usually range between 1/8-1/4 inch. 
  • Gnawing or Rub Marks
    Rats and mice are constantly gnawing on things to keep their teeth sharp.  You may notice areas in your drywall or furniture that look like they’ve been chewed on.  Rats leave rub marks—greasy dark trails—along the passages that they travel regularly.
  • Tracks
    Tracks can appear in the dirt outside or in the dust in your garage.  You’ll be able to see clearly the little feet and/or tails outlined along floors and walls.
  • Odors
    Rats use urine to mark their passageways and they also have their own distinct odors which most pest control experts are experienced enough to determine.
  • Sounds
    You may hear the sounds of scratching, chewing, or running through your walls, ceiling or doorways. 

During cold months, rats and mice may infest a home that doesn’t usually have pest issues.  They are seeking shelter, warmth and nourishment.  Before the cold weather hits, you may want to have a pest control expert come out to your property and look for problem areas to help you prevent any uninvited guests. 

Once you find rodents on your property, there are other ways to rid yourself of them including state of the art baits and traps.  However, it is best to consult with a professional before employing any of these methods to ensure the safety of any children or pets in your family.

For a free Los Angles pest control inspection, give us a call at 888-675-0258 or go to http://www.accuracypluscalifornia.com/.

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