If you live in Portland you know that rats are one of the most common pests found in homes and businesses in our area and across the country. Not only are they a nuisance, but they can also pose serious health risks. In this blog post, we will explore some of the health risks associated with rats and discuss various methods of rat removal and elimination.
Health Risks of Rats
- Disease Transmission – Rats can carry a number of dangerous diseases, such as hantavirus, leptospirosis, and salmonella. These diseases can be transmitted to humans through contact with rat urine, feces, or saliva.
- Allergies – Rat droppings, hair, and dander can all trigger allergies in humans. Exposure to these allergens can cause symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, and itching.
- Property Damage – Rats are notorious for chewing through electrical wiring, insulation, and other materials found in homes and businesses. This can cause serious damage and even pose a fire hazard.
- Psychological Effects – A rat infestation can be a source of extreme stress and anxiety for homeowners and business owners. The constant fear of rats can take a toll on mental health and well-being.
Popular rat removal techniques:
- Poison – One of the most common ways to deal with a rat infestation is through the use of poison. Rat poison is typically placed in areas where rats are known to frequent, such as near their burrows or feeding areas. However, this method can be dangerous if not used properly and can pose a risk to other animals and children.
- Trapping – Another effective way to deal with rats is through trapping. Traps are an excellent way to ensure rats are removed from your property. This can be done using snap traps or live traps. Live traps allow rats to be caught and released elsewhere, while snap traps are designed to kill rats on contact. Rat removal using live-traps can be tricky and a great deal of patience is required.
- Exclusion – Exclusion involves sealing off any entry points where rats may be entering a building. This can be done using materials such as steel wool, caulk, or mesh wire. By sealing off entry points, rats are prevented from entering a building and causing further damage. Exclusion is one of the most important aspects of rat removal from any home or structure.
- All-Natural Methods – For those who are hesitant to use poison or traps, there are all-natural methods that can be used to deter rats. This can include the use of peppermint oil, which rats dislike the scent of, or the use of ultrasonic devices that emit high-pitched sounds that rats find unpleasant.
It’s important to note that dealing with a rat infestation can be a difficult and time-consuming process. It’s often best to enlist the help of a professional pest control company. At Pest Patrol, we offer a comprehensive rat control service that includes a thorough inspection, trapping, exclusion work, and the use of all-natural methods.
In conclusion, a rat infestation can pose serious health risks and cause extensive property damage. If you suspect that you have a rat infestation, it’s important to take action quickly. Whether you choose to use poison, traps, exclusion methods, or all-natural methods, be sure to do so safely and effectively. And remember, if you need assistance in dealing with a rat infestation, Pest Patrol is here to help.
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