Entriken Critter Removal Will Effectively Remove Rats from Your Home
Rats infesting your home can be a major problem. Not only are they unsightly but they can also damage your property and pose serious health risks. Getting rid of rats requires a combination of preventative measures and targeted removal methods. In this article, we will take a closer look at how to effectively remove rats from your home.
Understanding Rat Infestations
Before we dive into the removal methods, it’s important to first understand rat infestations. Rats are nocturnal rodents that are attracted to food, water, and shelter. They can enter the home through small cracks and holes, and once they do, they can breed quickly. Rats can carry diseases and contaminate food, making them a serious health hazard.
It’s important to note that rats are not just found in dirty or unkempt homes. Even the cleanest and most well-maintained homes can fall victim to rat infestations. Rats are attracted to any home that provides them with the necessities of life, such as food, water, and shelter.
Signs of a Rat Infestation
Several signs could indicate a rat infestation. These include:
- Droppings found in cupboards, drawers, and along baseboards
- Scratching noises in walls or ceilings
- Nests made of shredded material
- Gnaw marks on food packaging or furniture
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action immediately. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse, and can lead to serious health risks for you and your family.
It’s also important to note that rats are not just a problem inside the home. They can also infest outdoor areas, such as gardens and sheds. If you notice any signs of rat activity outside, it’s important to take action to prevent them from entering your home.
Common Rat Entry Points
Rats can fit through small openings, so it’s important to identify and seal any potential entry points. Some common entry points include:
- Cracks in the foundation
- Spaces around windows and doors
- Holes around plumbing and wiring
- Vents and chimneys
It’s important to inspect your home regularly for any potential entry points and to seal them as soon as possible. This will prevent rats from entering your home and breeding, which can lead to a full-blown infestation.
Health Risks Associated with Rats
Aside from being unpleasant to look at, rats can also pose serious health risks. They can carry diseases such as salmonella and hantavirus, which can be transmitted through their urine and feces. Exposure to these diseases can lead to serious illness or even death.
It’s important to take any rat infestation seriously and to take action immediately. Ignoring the problem will only make it worse, and can put you and your family’s health at risk. Contact a professional pest control service to help you safely and effectively remove any rats from your home.
Preventative Measures to Keep Rats Away
The best way to deal with rats is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Here are a few preventative measures you can take:
Sealing Entry Points
Sealing entry points is an essential step in preventing rats from entering your home. Rats can squeeze through small openings, so it’s important to seal any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior. Use caulk or expandable foam to fill in any holes or gaps around pipes, vents, and cables. You can also install door sweeps to seal the gap under your doors.
It’s also important to check your home’s foundation for any cracks or gaps. Rats can enter through even the smallest opening, so be thorough in your inspection. If you find any openings, seal them immediately to prevent rats from entering your home.
Proper Food Storage
Rats are attracted to food, so proper food storage is crucial in preventing rat infestations. Make sure to store all food in sealed containers, including pet food and birdseed. Rats can easily chew through cardboard and plastic, so use sturdy containers made of metal or glass. Clean up any food spills immediately and avoid leaving food out in the open.
It’s also important to properly dispose of your garbage. Use a tightly sealed garbage can and take out the trash regularly. Rats are attracted to the smell of garbage, so keeping it contained is essential in preventing rat infestations.
Regular Home Maintenance
Keeping your home clean and clutter-free can also help prevent rat infestations. Rats are attracted to clutter and debris, so regularly clean up any potential hiding spots. Remove piles of leaves, wood, and other debris from your yard, as these can provide shelter for rats.
Regularly inspect your home for signs of rats, such as droppings, gnaw marks, and burrows. If you suspect a rat infestation, contact a pest control professional immediately.
By taking these preventative measures, you can greatly reduce the risk of rat infestations in your home. Remember to seal entry points, properly store food, and regularly maintain your home to keep rats away.
Rat Removal Methods
If you already have a rat infestation, there are several effective removal methods you can use.
Trapping Rats
Trapping rats is a humane and effective method of removal. There are two main types of traps: snap traps and live traps.
Snap Traps
Snap traps are the most common type of rat trap. They are designed to quickly and humanely kill the rat when triggered. Place them in areas where rats are known to travel, such as along walls and near entry points.
Live Traps
Live traps are designed to capture rats without killing them, allowing for release outside of the home. They can be less effective than snap traps as rats may be able to escape or become stressed in captivity. Make sure to release the rat far away from your home to prevent re-entry.
Using Rat Poison
Rat poison is another effective method of removal. However, it can be dangerous if not used properly. Make sure to read and follow all instructions carefully. It’s important to keep in mind that poisoned rats can die in hard-to-reach areas, leading to unpleasant odors and potential health hazards.
Natural Rat Repellents
There are also natural repellents that can help deter rats from entering your home. Peppermint oil and mothballs are both known to repel rats. Simply place them in areas where rats are known to travel.
Hiring a Professional Exterminator
If all else fails, consider hiring a professional exterminator to remove the rats. They have access to more effective removal methods and can help prevent future infestations.
Conclusion
Removing rats from your home can be a challenging task, but it’s important for the safety and health of your family. By taking preventative measures and using effective removal methods, you can effectively eliminate rats from your home. Remember to always use caution when handling traps or poison, and consider hiring a professional if needed.
Contact Entriken Critter Removal today and schedule a time to have your rodents removed.
