Rats are among the most unwelcome pests homeowners in Southern Maine can encounter. These rodents are not only destructive but can also carry diseases, making it crucial to address an infestation as soon as possible. Identifying the signs early can help you prevent extensive damage and health risks.
Noises in Walls or Ceilings
Rats are nocturnal and often make scratching, scurrying, or squeaking sounds at night. If you hear these noises in your walls, attic, or ceiling, it may be a sign that rats are nesting inside your home.
Droppings and Urine Marks
One of the most common signs of a rat infestation is droppings. Rat droppings are dark, capsule-shaped, and typically found along baseboards, in cupboards, or near food sources. You may also notice strong, musky odors caused by rat urine.
Gnaw Marks and Damage
Rats have constantly growing teeth and chew on wood, wires, plastic, and even pipes. Look for gnaw marks on furniture, food packaging, or structural areas of your home. Chewed electrical wiring can be especially dangerous, as it increases the risk of house fires.
Nesting Materials
Rats build nests from shredded paper, fabric, or insulation. Finding small piles of these materials tucked away in hidden areas, such as attics, basements, or behind appliances, is a strong indicator of rat activity.
Grease Marks and Tracks
Rats often travel the same paths repeatedly, leaving behind greasy rub marks along walls, floors, or baseboards. You might also notice footprints or tail marks in dusty areas.
Pet Behavior
Dogs and cats often sense rodent activity before humans do. If your pet seems unusually alert, fixated on certain areas, or pawing at walls or cabinets, they may be detecting rats.
Seeing a Live or Dead Rat
Spotting a rat—alive or dead—is a sure sign of a larger problem. Rats are social creatures, and seeing one usually means more are nearby.
Why Quick Action Matters
Ignoring the signs of a rat infestation can lead to extensive damage, contamination, and health risks for your household. Because rats reproduce rapidly, even a small problem can escalate quickly.
At Critter Control of Southern Maine, our team uses proven techniques to safely and effectively remove rats from your property. We also provide prevention solutions to keep them from coming back.