If you hear a scurrying in your attic or notice droppings on your basement floor, you could have a rat problem. Although rat infestations are common in Denton, most homeowners aren't ready to deal with these large rodents. Don't be caught unprepared, and learn all about rat control in Denton and how Mayco Pest & Termite Control can help.
Rats In Denton
You don't need to be a rodent expert to know how to identify the two most common rats in Denton. If you find a rat in or near your home, it's probably a Norway rat or a roof rat. Each rat has a unique appearance, so you may be able to discern the type.
Norway rats are usually brown and have stout bodies. As poor climbers, Norway rats are only found on ground floors and under crawl spaces. Meanwhile, the roof rat lives up to its name by climbing onto Denton roofs. These agile rats are black and small-bodied. Roof rats are so small that people often mistake them for mice.
Whether you have roof rats or Norway rats on your property, you can be sure they're around for the same reasons. For centuries, rats have turned to humans for food. They eat scraps of food left in garbage cans and alleyways. If humans are around, rats have access to easy meals.
Why Rats Are Bad For Your Home
Even one rat has the potential to cause damage to your property or harm to you. While rats don't intentionally cause trouble, they can be highly dangerous. Rats bring parasites like fleas and ticks into your home. Furthermore, they may transmit diseases like hantavirus. Being around rat droppings or urine is hazardous to your health.
When rats are around, your home isn't a safe place. They chew and scratch at your insulation and wiring, creating a trail of destruction as they go. If they chew on the wrong thing, a rat could create a fire hazard.
Rat Prevention Tips
You don't need to leave your home vulnerable to rats.
If you want to prevent rats from taking over your property, you should do the following:
- Clean Your Yard: Once rats get into your yard, they're bound to come inside. Keep them far away by cleaning up your yard. If you have piles of debris or wood, rats will be attracted to your property. Likewise, thick vegetation and tall grass make your yard appealing. Maintain your yard regularly or hire someone to do so, and you could deter rats. You should also know that roof rats can get into your home by using trees as bridges. To reduce your likelihood of an infestation, trim back tree branches that touch your home.
- Close Up Your Garbage Cans: If you don't have any lids on your garbage cans, you can expect rats to enjoy the buffet. Before you take out the trash, tie up your garbage bags and place them in a can with a lid. Don't allow your cans to get too full to place the lid securely on them.
- Remove Openings And Entrances: Because rats are excellent gnawers, they can turn tiny openings into large ones. The only way to keep rats out of your home is to ensure there are no small holes or cracks. Typically, you can use caulk and sealant to accomplish this.
Use Professional Rat Control
The most effective form of rat prevention is to work with Mayco Pest & Termite Control. We have a team dedicated to keeping your home safe from rats. With years of experience, our technicians know what it takes to keep rats outside. Our rat control gives you peace of mind that rats won't intrude and put you in danger.