October 15, 2021 - Rodents
Rats are rodents that can easily infest properties if left unchecked. Colorado residents may find these disease-ridden pests troublesome. When asking, “Why is it so hard to keep rats out of my home in Denver?” homeowners may find the answer is not so easy to answer, as rat issues can be complex.
Rats are furry mammals that may resemble large mice. Ranging in size from anywhere from 12 to 20-plus inches long from tip to tail, depending on species and age; they may be found in varying shades of browns and grays.
These pests are particularly dependent on humans, making them tough to combat without professional assistance. Rats are not the pickiest of eaters and find human food sources (especially leftovers and trash) quite delectable. Like us, these pests need a reliable water source and humans often offer this through spigots not completely shut off, birdbaths, dripping water heaters, and leaky pipes.
Rats are nocturnal creatures and prefer to fetch their food then take it to another spot so that they can consume it at their leisure. These rodents quickly develop habits and routines so once they determine the best feeding and watering areas, they will travel the same route in hopes of repeating the same success they did with past hauls.
Expert Tip: Making a home as inhospitable to rats as possible goes a long way towards preventing future infestations.
The Trouble With Rats
Images of rats can immediately conjure up visions of nasty rodents with long tails. While the lack of physical attributes may be offensive, the real problem with rats is the harm they can inflict.
- Distress - Having to ask, “Why is it so hard to keep rats out of my home in Denver?” can cause homeowners a good amount of unnecessary grief. Rats can also bring additional pests like fleas with them, causing yet another problem for Denver residents. Looking out for these fuzzy invaders can be quite stressful.
- Disarray - Food poisoning can occur if these critters contaminate areas reserved for preparing food. Cleaning up gross rat droppings and constantly sanitizing kitchen counters is no fun.
- Destruction - Rats are destructive; their teeth are sharp enough to gnaw through all kinds of things including wires, cinder block, wood, plastic, lead, and even bricks. Damage to insulation, plumbing, electrical wiring, and overall structure could be left behind in the wake of a rat infestation.
- Disease - These rodents are dangerous, as they carry a wide array of diseases. Bubonic plague, jaundice, typhus, trichinosis, cowpox virus, and salmonellosis are all threats that rats pose. If scratched or bitten, people may develop rat-bite fever that comes with painful symptoms.
Preventing Rats Before They Become Problematic
Prevention is the best way to deter rats. These guys can squeeze through a hole as small as a nickel, so the first step of deterring them is properly sealing up cracks, gaps, and holes around the house with a quality caulk. Eliminate water and food sources that rats can easily access as well. Be sure to begin in the yard. Clean up pet feces promptly, keep garbage cans closed tightly, and forgo birdfeeders for the time being.
Successfully Handling A Rat Infestation With Absolute Pest Control
The takeaway for anyone wondering, "Why is it so hard to keep rats out of my home in Denver?" Leave it to the professionals at Absolute Pest Control! Rats are no laughing matter; they are dangerous and can become aggressive. Calling in helpful experts is the safe path to a rat-free home that can safeguard homeowners and prevent costly property repairs.
Here at Absolute Pest Control, we have the experience and the tools to get the job right. Reach out to us today to learn more about our rodent control options. We offer both residential pest control as well as commercial pest management services.