Five Signs of Rats In Your House

Rats are more than just unwelcome guests; they can bring health risks, property damage, and even structural concerns to your home. Recognizing the signs of a rat infestation early on can help prevent a minor problem from turning into a major headache. At Lincoln Pest Control, we want to equip you with the knowledge to identify and address these unwelcome visitors promptly. Here are five common signs that you might have rats in your home.

Droppings

One of the most visible signs of a rat infestation is the presence of droppings. Rat droppings are typically dark, small, and shaped like pellets. You’ll often find them in areas where rats are most active, like the kitchen, pantry, attic, or near garbage bins. Fresh droppings are soft and dark, while older droppings become dry and brittle. If you notice droppings accumulating in specific areas, it’s a clear indication that rats may be nearby.

Gnaw Marks

Rats have strong teeth that grow continuously, so they need to chew on hard materials to keep them filed down. This behavior often leaves gnaw marks on surfaces around your home. Commonly chewed items include furniture, wooden beams, wires, and food packaging. Fresh gnaw marks are typically light in color and darken over time. Rats chewing on electrical wires can also be a fire hazard, making it critical to address this issue as soon as you spot evidence of their chewing.

Nests and Burrows

Rats will create nests using materials they find around the house, such as shredded paper, fabric, insulation, or even cardboard. Nests are usually found in hidden, warm, and undisturbed areas like basements, attics, and inside walls. If you notice small piles of shredded materials or nests, it’s a strong indication that rats are nesting in your home. You might also spot burrows outside near foundations or in overgrown areas close to your home’s exterior.

Footprints and Tail Marks

In dusty or undisturbed areas, you may notice rat footprints or tail marks. Rats typically have four-toed front feet and five-toed hind feet, so look for tracks with these patterns in places like basements, attics, or hidden corners. You can check for active movement by sprinkling a small layer of flour or talcum powder in suspected areas and looking for new tracks the following day. If you find fresh marks, it’s a strong sign that rats are moving through these areas.

Noises in the Walls or Attic

Rats are nocturnal, so they’re most active at night. If you hear scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds coming from within walls, ceilings, or the attic, rats may be the cause. These noises often occur as rats move through your home in search of food or while they nest. The sounds may intensify if there is a significant infestation, making it essential to address the issue quickly before it worsens.

How Lincoln Pest Control Can Help

Detecting a rat infestation early is crucial to preventing the problem from growing out of control. At Lincoln Pest Control, our experienced technicians provide comprehensive rodent control solutions to keep your home safe. We use a combination of effective treatments and exclusion methods to eliminate existing infestations and prevent rats from returning.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs or suspect rats may have found their way into your home, contact us today. Our team is here to help you regain peace of mind with safe, professional pest control services tailored to your needs.

Lincoln Pest and Property Solutions is a locally owned and operated business serving Rhode Island & Southeastern Massachusetts. As one of the leading pest control companies in RI, our mission for over 35 years has been simple: Provide innovative and effective pest control solutions for your home or business, while maintaining a safe environment. We use the latest in eco-friendly technology to keep your home or place of business safe and pest free.