Keeping rodents out of your home is essential, not just because they are dirty and can carry diseases but also because they can cause significant property damage. They can chew through insulation and even wires, which could start a fire. If you see a mouse or rat scuttling around your floor, that’s a clear sign that you need rodent control services, but there are a few less obvious signs of rodent activity that may go unnoticed.
Here are four signs that you need rodent control services:
- Rodent Droppings – You might find mice or rat droppings around food packages, under the sink, or in drawers or cupboards. New droppings will be dark, shiny, and moist, while old droppings will be gray, dry, and crumbly. Mouse droppings are about the size of a grain of rice and have pointed ends. Rat droppings are slightly larger and have more rounded ends.
- Nests – Rodents use nesting materials like shredded paper, fabric, and dried plants. Nests are hidden, but you will know they are nearby if you find droppings or gnaw marks.
- Stale Odors – Rodent urine breaks down and releases ammonia gas, so you may notice a stale odor coming from hidden places. Many have described the smell as similar to a baby’s diaper.
- Unusual Pet Behavior – Pets like cats and dogs may start acting odd if there is a rodent nearby, so if you see them pawing at an area they usually wouldn’t, you may need to investigate.
If you need rodent control services, contact our team at Quality Control, Inc.