Rats: Facts, Information, and Treatment

Welcome to Fox Pest Control’s ultimate guide on rats! Whether you’re dealing with an infestation or just curious about these tiny creatures, we’ve got all the information you need. From facts and types to behaviors and rat treatment options, this guide covers it all. Let’s dive in! 

What Are Rats?

Rats are clever, sneaky little rodents that are built to survive just about anywhere. Whether they’re scurrying through city streets or hanging out in the countryside, these rodents know how to make themselves at home. Let’s break down what makes rats so unique—and honestly, pretty fascinating.

Rats are usually 6 to 10 inches long, not counting their tails, which can add another 6 to 8 inches. All in all, some rats can stretch to around 16 inches from nose to tail! Most weigh about 12 to 16 ounces, though some species, like the Norway rat, can get even chunkier.

When it comes to color, wild rats tend to rock shades of brown, gray, or black—perfect for blending into their surroundings. Domesticated rats, though, like the ones people keep as pets, can be a little flashier with white, tan, or spotted coats.

How Many Rats Are There in The World

Did you know there are over 7 billion rats worldwide? That’s roughly one rat for every human on Earth! While this number is a rough estimate, it’s no secret that rats are prolific breeders and can be found almost anywhere humans live. We’re going to dig deeper into how fast they can multiply in a minute. Some researchers even believe that urban areas like New York City might have more rats than people! With their adaptability and knack for survival, rats have carved out a niche for themselves in nearly every corner of the globe.

Did You Know That There Are Over…

…60 species of rats? While most of us are familiar with the Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) and the roof rat (Rattus rattus), there’s an entire world of rat diversity out there. Rats can range from small, wild varieties to giant species like the Gambian pouched rat, which can grow over two feet long! Despite their different sizes and habitats, one thing is consistent: rats are survivors.

Rats Have Been Around for a Really, Really Long Time…

Fossil records suggest that rats have been scurrying around for millions of years. Their ancestors first appeared during the Paleocene epoch, over 56 million years ago. Rats are part of the rodent family, which makes up about 40% of all mammal species. Their long history on Earth is a testament to their incredible adaptability. From ancient forests to modern cities, rats have always found a way to thrive.

Do Rats Bite, Sting, Damage Property, or Spread Disease?

The short answer? Yes, to all of the above—except sting! Rats don’t have stingers (thank goodness), but they’ve got other tricks up their furry sleeves that make them more than just a nuisance. Let’s break it down:

Do Rats Bite? Yep, they sure can—but don’t panic just yet! Rats usually only bite if they feel cornered or threatened. They’re more likely to run away than pick a fight. That said, rat bites can hurt and may even cause infections, so if you ever find yourself in a “rat vs. human” situation, give them some space to escape.

Do Rats Sting? Nope! Rats might be sneaky, but stinging isn’t their thing. Their danger lies in other areas, like their teeth and disease-carrying potential.

Do Rats Damage Property? Oh, yeah, big time. Rats are like little demolition crews with fur. Their constantly growing teeth mean they have to chew nonstop to keep them filed down, and they’re not picky about what they gnaw on. Here are some of their favorite “snacks”:

• Wooden furniture, baseboards, and even structural beams aren’t safe.
• They’ll chew right through plastic bins, pipes, and trash cans.
• One of the scariest things rats do is chew on electrical wires, which can lead to short circuits or even house fires. Yikes!
• Got a bag of chips or a loaf of bread left out? A rat will happily chew through the wrapper for a midnight snack.

Do Rats Spread Disease? Unfortunately, yes. Rats have a long history of spreading diseases to humans and other animals. Here are just a few illnesses linked to these rodents:

• Leptospirosis: Spread through rat urine, this nasty disease can cause fever, chills, and kidney damage.
• Hantavirus: Found in rodent droppings and urine, this virus can lead to serious respiratory issues.
• Salmonella: Rats can contaminate food and surfaces, spreading bacteria, which causes food poisoning.
• The Plague: Yep, that plague. While it’s rare today, rats helped spread the bubonic plague back in the Middle Ages. Thankfully, modern sanitation and pest control have made this disease far less of a threat.

So, while rats may not be out to get you, their habits can create big problems. We’ll get into what you can do to keep rats out, but if you’ve got a rat problem, it’s time to call in the rat exterminators at Fox Pest Control.

Life Cycle of Rats

Rats may not have passports, but their life journey is still pretty remarkable! From tiny, squeaky newborns to full-grown survivors, here’s a closer look at each stage of a rat’s life:

Birth: Blind Beginnings

Baby rats, called pups, enter the world completely helpless—they’re born hairless, blind, and about the size of a jellybean. But don’t let their tiny size fool you—these little guys grow fast. A single female rat can have 6–12 pups per litter and up to 7 litters a year! That’s a lot of baby rats running around.

Weaning: Learning the ropes (and chewing them!)

Within just 3 weeks, pups grow fur, open their eyes, and are weaned off their mother’s milk. At this point, they’re already exploring their surroundings and learning the ropes of being a rat.

Adulthood: Full grown and fearless

By the time they’re just 5 weeks old, rats are fully mature and ready to start their own families. Yep, they waste no time in the reproduction department. With a gestation period of just 21–23 days, the cycle starts all over again—this is one of the reasons rat populations can explode so quickly if left unchecked.

A rat’s life expectancy largely depends on where it lives. For wild rats, life is tough—they usually only make it 1–2 years due to predators, scarce food, and constant environmental challenges. It’s a nonstop game of survival that keeps them on their toes. On the other hand, pet rats have it made. In cozy, safe environments with plenty of love, care, and snacks, these lucky rodents can live up to 4 years, enjoying the good life far away from the dangers of the wild.

The Roles of Adult Rats

Adult rats are pretty amazing when it comes to surviving and thriving. Once they hit adulthood, usually around 5 weeks old, they’re ready to take on the world—and it’s not just about finding food and a mate. They’re sociable, smart, and incredibly resourceful. Let’s take a peek into their adult lives!

Finding Food: The Ultimate Foragers

Adult rats are like little food detectives, always on the lookout for their next meal. They’re omnivores, meaning they’ll eat just about anything—from grains to fruits, veggies, meat, and even trash. In the wild, they rely on their sharp sense of smell to find food, and they’ll scavenge through garbage, raid bird feeders, and even sneak into houses if there’s a tasty snack. Because rats are night owls, most of their foraging happens when it’s dark and quiet. They’ll stash food in secret places to snack on later, just in case there’s a dry spell.

Mating: Speedy Love

Rats aren’t exactly picky when it comes to romance—reproduction is practically their full-time job! Female rats can go into heat every 4–5 days, and once they do, they’re ready to mate. A male rat’s job is to find a mate fast, and he’s not shy about it. Rats are known for their speedy mating, and it doesn’t take long for them to start the next generation. A female rat can give birth to 6–12 pups every 21 days, so it’s not unusual for a family of rats to grow quickly!

Social Life: Not Just Lone Wolves

While rats might not have “BFFs” like humans, they are very social creatures. They live in colonies and tend to stick together. Unlike some animals that prefer to be alone, rats are all about community. They “talk” to each other with squeaks, tail flicks, and even ultrasonic sounds we can’t hear. Adult rats often hang out with their families and other colony members, sharing food, grooming each other, and looking out for one another. It’s a pretty tight-knit group where teamwork is key.

Rats are not loners—they thrive on companionship, and their social bonds help them stay safe and find food together. They might not throw parties, but they sure know how to make the most of their rat-pack life. If you ever spot a rat, know they’re probably with their buddies, working together to survive in the big wide world!

Mistaken Identities: Which Rodent is It

Mice and rats might both be rodents, but they each have their own distinct vibe. It’s easy to mix them up, especially if you’re not paying close attention. Here’s a fun breakdown of how you can tell the difference between these two—and between some common rat species too!

Rats vs. Mice: The Ultimate Rodent Showdown

Size:

• Mice are tiny, weighing in at about 0.5 to 1 ounce.
• Rats are much bigger, weighing around 12 to 16 ounces (or more!).

Tail:

• Mice have thin, whip-like tails that are usually about the same length as their bodies.
• Rats have thicker, scaly tails that are often shorter or around the same length as their bodies.

Snout:

• Mice have pointed snouts that give them a more delicate appearance.
• Rats have blunt noses with a more rounded look—pretty easy to spot if you’re up close!

Ears and Eyes:

• Mice typically have big ears compared to their small heads and black beady eyes.
• Rats have smaller, more proportionate ears and slightly smaller eyes.

Roof Rats vs. Norway Rats: The Battle of the Rat Species

Another common mix-up is between roof rats and Norway rats. Roof rats are agile climbers, while Norway rats prefer to burrow near the ground.

Climbing Skills:

• Roof Rats are the gymnasts of the rat world! They’re excellent climbers, and can scale walls, trees, and wires to get to higher places.
• Norway Rats prefer staying low to the ground and are burrowers, typically found digging in basements, sewers, or beneath buildings.

Body Shape:

• Roof Rats have sleek, slender bodies that make them great climbers and jumpers.
• Norway Rats are chunkier, with stockier bodies, better suited for digging and tunneling.

Habitat:

• Roof Rats love to set up shop in attics, roofs, or high places where they can hide away and scavenge.
• Norway Rats like to live low to the ground, making burrows in dirt or even inside walls or underground.

Tail Length:

• Roof Rats have long tails that are usually longer than their bodies, helping them balance when climbing.
• Norway Rats have shorter tails relative to their bodies, not as helpful for climbing but perfect for digging and running.

Next time you see a rodent scurrying around, you’ll know exactly whether you’re dealing with a mouse, a roof rat, or a Norway rat—each with their own unique look and lifestyle!

Behavior, Diet, and Living Conditions of Rats

Rats are nocturnal and incredibly curious. They’ll eat almost anything but prefer grains, fruits, and nuts. Norway rats tend to stay close to the ground, while roof rats enjoy higher perches like attics and rafters. Both species thrive in warm, sheltered spaces with access to food and water—a recipe for infestation if your home isn’t secure!

Rat Quirks: What Makes Them Unique

Rats aren’t just your average rodents—they’ve got some pretty interesting quirks:

Chew On This: Why rats chew on everything

Rats are professional chewers, and they’ve got a good reason for it! Their teeth never stop growing—about 5 inches a year—and if they didn’t chew, they’d face some serious dental problems. To keep their teeth from growing out of control, rats gnaw on pretty much anything they can get their paws on. Their sharp, strong teeth are built for gnawing, slicing, and grinding all kinds of materials, and they use them for everything from grooming to defense to squeezing through tight spaces. It’s all about survival—without chewing, they wouldn’t be able to thrive!

Rats are unpredictable in their chewing habits. You can find them munching on a huge variety of materials, including:

• Wood: Wooden furniture, baseboards, and even tree branches are fair game. If it’s wooden, they’ll gnaw through it like it’s a snack.
• Plastic: Don’t leave plastic bags, storage bins, or even pipes in reach—they’ll chew through them without breaking a sweat.
• Wires: Yep, rats love to chew on electrical wires, which is not just destructive but also dangerous. Chewed wires can cause short circuits, fires, and other electrical mishaps.
• Cardboard and Paper: If it’s soft and fibrous, you can bet a rat will nibble on it. They love to shred cardboard boxes, magazines, and even paper towels for a cozy nest.
• Fabric: Clothes, upholstery, and even carpets are at risk if a rat’s around. They’ll chew through fabric to make bedding or just satisfy their constant urge to gnaw.
• Food Containers: You’ve probably seen a rat chew through plastic food containers, bags, or even cans to get to the tasty snack inside.

Night Owls: The Nocturnal Life of Rats

Rats are night owls in the truest sense! Most rats are nocturnal, which means they’re at their most active when the sun goes down. While you’re cozy in bed, rats are out on the prowl, making the most of the cover of darkness to go about their business.

Why the night shift? Well, it’s all about survival. Being active at night helps rats stay safe from predators and avoid human activity. During the day, they stay tucked away in their nests or hidden spots, waiting for nightfall when it’s their time to shine.

Super Senses for the Dark

Rats rely heavily on their amazing sense of smell and acute hearing to navigate the darkness. Their sense of smell is so sharp, they can detect food from far away, even through walls! They’ll follow scent trails to find snacks and safe spots to hide, all while avoiding danger. Their hearing is just as impressive, helping them pick up on the faintest sounds, like the squeak of a distant rat or the rustling of food wrappers. This combination of senses makes them pros at finding food and avoiding trouble in the dark.

They might not have great eyesight in the dark, but rats make up for it by relying on their whiskers to feel around. These super-sensitive whiskers help them “see” through touch, guiding them through tight spaces and around obstacles.

If you hear scratching or scurrying sounds late at night, you might be dealing with a rat doing its nightly rounds. They’re built for the dark, and when the lights go out, they come alive!

The Hidden Talents of Your Average Rat

Rats aren’t just good at surviving—they’ve got some serious skills. Let’s look at just a few of them.

Tight Spaces? No Problem

Rats are champions of squeezing through tight spots, and their motto is: If my head fits, the rest of me follows. Seriously, even if the hole is only the size of a quarter, a rat can shimmy its way through. How? With their super bendy ribs and ability to flatten out like a pancake, they can slip through cracks, holes, or any narrow space they come across. That’s why they can sneak into your house through the tiniest gaps—like around doors, vents, or pipes. So, if you ever wonder how a rat got into a place you thought was impossible, now you know: they’re basically the Houdini’s of the rodent world!

Ninja Moves

When it comes to agility, rats are like the Ninjas of the animal kingdom! They can jump up to three feet in the air, which means they can clear obstacles and grab food with some serious style. But they don’t just jump—they can climb walls, run across wires, and even scale smooth surfaces like a pro. Ever seen a rat casually running along a power line? Yeah, that’s them showing off their climbing skills. Thanks to their grippy paws and tail acrobatics, they can climb, leap, and zip around like little acrobats, making them super hard to catch!

Swimming Stars

Norway rats are the Michael Phelps of the rat world when it comes to swimming! These little swimmers can tread water for up to three days, which means they can float or swim around without getting tired. This skill comes in handy when they’re using sewers as their personal travel routes. Imagine just swimming through storm drains and popping out wherever you want to go! These rats can navigate flooded areas and survive in tough conditions, making them pretty much the survival pros of the rodent world.

Brainy buddies

Rats aren’t just about muscle—they’ve got some serious brains too! They’re quick learners and can figure out tricky puzzles in no time. Whether it’s solving a maze or pressing a button to get a treat, these rats are fast on the uptake. But what’s even cooler is that rats can learn tricks and remember things, like responding to their names or even following commands. And if one of their buddies is in trouble? Rats can show empathy and actually help each other out! They’re not just clever—they’re compassionate too. So, not only are rats tough and nimble, but they’re also social, brainy, and caring creatures. What’s not to love?

Nesting Habits: Home Sweet Rat Home

Rats are natural-born nest builders, and they take their cozy hideouts very seriously. Depending on the species, rats have their own preferred spots to set up shop.

• Norway Rats are the burrowers of the bunch. They love digging underground burrows, which can be found beneath buildings, in basements, or even under piles of debris. These burrows are like little underground apartments, complete with tunnels and cozy chambers.
• Roof Rats, on the other hand, are the high-flyers. They prefer to nest in attics, lofts, or roofs, and they’re pretty skilled at climbing to those higher places. They’ll take advantage of any accessible space, whether it’s in the rafters or behind walls.

To make their homes extra comfy, rats gather all sorts of shredded materials to build their nests. They’ll use anything they can get their paws on, including paper, cardboard, fabric, insulation, or even bits of trash. They’ll chew, tear, and shred these materials into perfect little bits for lining their nests, ensuring they’re snug and warm.

Once they’ve settled in, rats are multiplying machines. Remember, a single pair can have up to seven litters a year, each with 6-12 pups. That means their population can grow super fast, making early detection and intervention super important. If you spot signs of a rat nest, like gnaw marks or shredded materials, it’s crucial to act fast before the little family expands into a full-blown colony!

How Do Rats Communicate?

Rats are total chatterboxes, but don’t expect to hear them gossiping away in a human-friendly way. They’ve got their own secret language, and it’s pretty fascinating!

Squeaks, Chirps, and Laughter? Oh My!

Rats have a whole sound library of vocalizations, many of which are ultrasonic—meaning they’re too high-pitched for us to hear. But just because we can’t hear them doesn’t mean they’re not talking up a storm! They use these high-frequency squeaks and chirps to communicate all sorts of feelings.

• Happy squeaks: When rats are content or enjoying something (like food or a nice scratch), they’ll produce high-pitched squeaks that are essentially their version of a giggle. Yes, you read that right—rats can laugh! Their laughter, however, is in the form of tiny, rapid chirps that sound more like a squeaky toy than a human chuckle. It’s their way of showing they’re having a good time.
• Fearful squeals: When rats are scared or in danger, they let out frantic, high-pitched vocalizations that alert others. Think of it as their panic button. These sounds help warn their fellow rats that something’s not right, and they need to scramble for cover.
• Social chatter: Rats also chat with each other in softer vocalizations when they’re just hanging out, bonding, or getting to know each other.

Pheromones: The Invisible Messages

Rats don’t just rely on squeaks to communicate—they also send out invisible chemical signals called pheromones. These pheromones are like little scent messages that tell other rats things like:

• “Hey, I’m here!” Pheromones help rats mark their territory, letting others know when they’ve claimed an area as their own.
• “Let’s mate!” Rats release specific pheromones to signal when they’re ready to mate, which attracts potential partners.
• “Stay away!” If a rat’s feeling threatened or territorial, they can send out pheromones to warn others to back off.

Body Language: The Ratty Express

Rats are also pretty expressive with their bodies! You can tell a lot about how a rat feels based on its posture and movements.

• Tails up = Happy rat: If a rat is excited or curious, you might notice their tail standing tall, almost like they’re giving a thumbs-up in rat language.
• Ears back = Angry rat: If a rat’s feeling threatened or upset, it might flatten its ears against its head as a sign of aggression or discomfort.
• Twitchy whiskers = In the zone: Rats use their whiskers to feel around in their environment, and if they’re twitching them a lot, they might be focused or exploring new spaces.

Rats are social animals and communicate all the time with their squeaks, scents, and body language. So, even if they’re not chatting with us, they’ve got a whole language that helps them bond with each other, share information, and stay connected. Looks like rats have a lot to say—we just need to learn their language!

What Do Rats Eat?

If there were a gold medal for being a foodie, rats would win every time. These little critters are omnivores, meaning they’ll eat just about anything that crosses their path. From seeds and grains to fruits, veggies, meat, and yes, even garbage, rats are true culinary adventurers. Their diet depends on what’s available, but one thing’s for sure—they’re not picky eaters!

• Nature’s Buffet: In the wild, rats munch on whatever they can forage, like nuts, berries, roots, and even insects.
• Urban Delights: City rats thrive on human leftovers. Think pizza crusts, fast food wrappers, and whatever goodies they can find in dumpsters or garbage bins. If it’s edible, it’s fair game.
• Protein, please: Rats will also eat meat if they come across it. They’re opportunistic, so whether it’s a stray scrap of chicken or a bug crawling by, it’s going on the menu.

Those Gnaw-tastic Teeth

Remember, rats are professional gnawers, and their teeth are the ultimate multitool. Since a rat’s teeth never stop growing, they chew constantly to keep them in check. This gnawing also helps them break into tough food sources—like cracking open seeds, ripping through packaging, or even chewing through wood to get at something tasty. Their teeth are strong enough to chomp through plastic, wire, and even concrete in some cases!

How Do Rats Get Their Food?

Rats don’t just eat like foodies—they work for their meals with impressive ingenuity. They’re opportunistic feeders, meaning they’ll take advantage of whatever’s available, whether it’s scavenged, stolen, or found.

The Scavenging and Foraging Habits of Rats

• Out in the wild: Rats forage for nuts, fruits, grains, and insects. They’re excellent at sniffing out food and will explore long distances to find their next meal.
• In urban areas: Rats scavenge from trash bins, dumpsters, and even food scraps dropped on the ground. A pile of garbage to you is a five-star buffet to them!

Rats are Dumpster Diving Pros

Urban rats are masters of trash raids. They’ve figured out how to dive into dumpsters and navigate through all kinds of debris to find the good stuff. Leftover pizza, half-eaten burgers, or discarded vegetables? Rats know how to make a meal out of anything.

Rats are Clever Problem-Solvers

Rats are surprisingly smart when it comes to finding food. Studies have shown that they can:

• Navigate mazes to find hidden snacks.
• Steal food from other animals or even sneak into human homes.
• Open containers and break into pantries with their sharp teeth and clever minds.

A Nose That Knows

Their sense of smell is next-level, helping them sniff out food from far away. Whether it’s a crumb under the fridge or a pile of trash in the alley, a rat’s nose leads the way.

While rats might seem like annoying dumpster divers, their eating habits have helped them thrive in nearly every environment on Earth. They’re adaptable, clever, and persistent—qualities that make them both fascinating and challenging to deal with. And hey, you have to admit, their resourcefulness is kind of impressive!

Signs of a Rat Infestation

Think you might have uninvited furry guests? Rats are sneaky, but they leave behind clues that can help you figure out if they’ve set up shop in your home. Here’s what to look for:

1. Droppings: The most common (and grossest) sign of rats is their droppings. These small, dark pellets are usually found near food sources, along baseboards, or in areas where they nest. A single rat can leave behind 40 to 50 droppings a day, so if you see a lot of these, you likely have a serious problem.
2. Gnaw Marks: Rats love to chew—and not just on food. You might notice gnawed wires, chewed-up wood, or even bite marks on plastic containers. They’re doing this to keep their ever-growing teeth in check, but it can cause some serious damage to your home (and even pose fire hazards if they get into electrical wiring).
3. Scratching Noises: Rats are nocturnal, which means they’re most active at night. If you hear scratching, rustling, or scampering sounds in your walls, ceilings, or floors after dark, it could be rats running around and making themselves at home.
4. Nests: Rats are master nest-builders and love to make their hideouts as cozy as possible. They’ll gather shredded paper, fabric, cardboard, or anything soft to create a warm, safe space for their family. Look in hidden areas like behind appliances, in attics, or under furniture for signs of a nest.
5. Grease Marks: Rats follow the same paths repeatedly, brushing their oily fur along walls, baseboards, or entry points. These smudges or streaks can be a dead giveaway that rats are using that route regularly.
6. Footprints and Tail Marks: In dusty areas, like basements or attics, you might spot tiny footprints or drag marks from their tails. Sprinkle a bit of flour or baby powder along suspected paths to confirm their presence—they’ll leave tracks as they scurry through.
7. Strange Odors: Rats can leave behind a musky, ammonia-like smell, especially in enclosed spaces where their droppings and urine accumulate. If you notice a sudden unpleasant odor that you can’t explain, it could be a sign of an infestation.
8. Seeing a Rat: The most obvious sign? Actually, spotting a rat! If you see one out in the open, it’s likely not alone—rats are social animals and rarely live solo. Where there’s one, there are usually more.

Catching the signs early is key to controlling a rat problem before it gets out of hand. Rats multiply quickly, cause significant property damage, and can spread disease. If you spot any of these signs, it’s time to take action—let’s look at what you can do.

What You Can Do About Rats

Whether you’ve spotted the signs of a rat infestation or just want to stay a step ahead of these sneaky critters, there’s plenty you can do to protect your home and say, “Sorry, no room at the inn!” Here’s how you can help keep your space rat-free:

Seal the Deal: Rats can squeeze through openings as small as a quarter, so your first line of defense is sealing up entry points.

• Check your walls, foundation, roof, and vents for cracks, holes, or gaps.
• Use steel wool, metal mesh, or caulking to block these openings. Avoid soft materials like foam or wood—rats will chew right through them like they’re at an all-you-can-eat buffet.
• Don’t forget to inspect areas around pipes, windows, and doors for any potential rat-sized gaps.

Keep It Clean: A clean home is far less tempting for a rat looking to settle down.

• Food Storage: Store all food in airtight containers—no more open cereal boxes or snack bags left on the counter!
• Pet Food: Don’t leave pet food out overnight. To a rat, it’s basically a free buffet.
• Kitchen Habits: Wipe down counters, sweep up crumbs, and take out the trash regularly. Even small scraps can attract rodents.

Clear the Clutter: Rats love clutter—it’s like their version of a cozy Airbnb.

• Inside, get rid of piles of newspapers, boxes, or random clutter where rats might hide or build nests.
• Outside, keep your yard tidy. Trim overgrown shrubs, remove woodpiles, and keep firewood stacked away from your house.
• Clear out debris or anything that provides a convenient hiding spot for these critters.

Don’t Forget the Perimeter: Your yard is the first line of defense before rats even think about entering your home.

• Install rodent-proof covers on vents and drains.
• Keep your garbage bins sealed tight. Rats can easily pop the lid off a loose trash can for a midnight snack.
• If you have fruit trees, pick up fallen fruit promptly—don’t give rats an open invitation to your yard.

Stay Vigilant! Keeping rats out of your home is an ongoing effort. Regularly inspect your property for signs of activity, keep things clean and sealed, and be proactive about addressing potential hiding spots. By following these steps, you’ll make your home about as appealing to rats as a salad bar is to a junk food lover—basically, not at all!

How Do I Get Rid of Rats?

Tried everything and still dealing with pesky rats? Don’t worry—Fox Pest Control has your back! We’re the pros when it comes to evicting unwanted rodents and making sure they don’t come back.

When you combine the tips above with our Home Protection Plan, you’ll have year-round protection from rats and other common household pests. Our expert technicians will:

• Spot entrance points and seal them up to stop rats in their tracks.
• Identify unsealed areas or potential problem spots you might have missed.
• Address the root causes of your infestation to ensure a long-term solution.

At Fox, we take rat pest control seriously. Our technicians receive hands-on, real-world training and stay up-to-date on the latest tools and techniques to handle your rat problem quickly and effectively. We’re here to give you peace of mind so you can feel safe and comfortable in your home again.

Don’t let rats take over—give Fox Pest Control a call today, and we’ll help you send them packing!