Why Do I Have So Many Rats in My House?

Rats in and around your home are not good. Besides being annoying and causing damage to your property, they are also a health risk. Rats are capable of spreading diseases through their droppings and urine. Rat bites can cause renal failure. Besides, these pests can also spread diseases to pets. So, what are the reasons you have so many rats in your home? What may be attracting the rodents? Find out in this guide so that you can implement the right Rodent Control Sydney in your home.

Which Species of Rats & Mice Enter Homes?

Black rats are the most common rodent invaders in Australia, followed by brown rats. Others include house mice and wood mice. Rats and mice usually invade roof spaces, cupboards, and cellars. They can also wall spaces their home.

What Attracts Rats to Your Home?

Food and shelter are the most common factors that can attract mice and rats. If you don’t keep your home clean and allow food waste on surfaces, you could be creating the perfect environment to draw these pests. Find out the different reasons these rodents

i. Food

Rats can eat almost anything. They are always in search of a reliable source of food. Chances are that there are leftovers on your kitchen counter or the garbage cans are unsealed. Rats usefully feed on fruits, vegetables, seeds, and grains. When they invade your home, they can feed on oats, cereal, and rice stored in thin boxes or plastics. They can also consume pet food from their feeding stations.

ii. Shelter & Warmth

Rats are drawn to homes in the winter months, as they seek shelter and warmth. They need warm places for giving birth and raising their young. These rodents are drawn to the heat and comfort provided by the heating systems and fireplaces in homes. Usually, they will try to build their nest close to the source of heat.

iii. Water Leaks

Rats not only need a stable and warm place to live, but they also value a reliable source of water and leaking water pipes can seem to be the perfect source as such. They are attracted to all types of open water sources including birdbaths and pet bowls. It is recommended to fix all leaking pipes and hoses. You should also get any dripping faucets replaced.

iv. Open Garbage Cans & Pet Waste

If you have pets, make sure to clean their wastes immediately. Diffuse any smell of their waste, as it can attract these rodents.

• Make sure to seal any trash cans or dumpsters
• Garbage cans, both outside and inside your home, must be emptied regularly

v. Clutter

Clutter can be a source of nesting material for rodents. The ideal location for rats to build nests are the ones that offer food sources and provide cover. Examples include:

• Basements
• Attics
• Garages
• Sheds

Clutter is mostly made up of materials that can be used by rats to build nests.

So, if you want to keep rats out of your home, you should take steps to avoid creating the above-mentioned problems in your home. If you already have a rat infestation problem, you should seek professional help. Just like termite control Sydney, a rat invasion can only be overcome with the intervention of certified and licensed pest control services.