What can rats gnaw? - briefly
Rats gnaw wood, plastic, electrical wiring, cardboard, insulation, fabrics, and various food items.
What can rats gnaw? - in detail
Rats possess continuously growing incisors that require regular wear. Consequently, they gnaw on a wide range of substances to maintain tooth length and to access food or shelter.
Common materials include:
- Wood – structural framing, furniture, pallets, and wooden crates.
- Plastics – containers, tubing, cable jackets, and packaging components.
- Metal – soft copper, aluminum, and wiring sheathing, especially when coated with insulation.
- Insulation – fiberglass, foam, and cellulose used in walls and ceilings.
- Drywall and plaster – edges of sheets, joint compound, and corner beads.
- Paper and cardboard – boxes, books, newspapers, and packaging.
- Fabric and upholstery – clothing, curtains, cushions, and carpet fibers.
- Food items – grains, seeds, nuts, dried fruit, pet food, and processed snacks.
- Organic debris – leaves, bark, and decaying plant material found in outdoor environments.
Rats also target soft, moisture‑rich substrates such as:
- Cheese, meat, and fruit – providing immediate nutritional value.
- Pet treats and waste – accessible in trash bins or discarded containers.
In addition to consumables, rats chew on structural components to create entry points, enlarge existing holes, or build nesting chambers. Their ability to gnaw through materials varies with hardness; softer substances are reduced quickly, while harder metals may be worn only superficially.
Understanding the breadth of items susceptible to rodent gnawing aids in selecting appropriate prevention measures, such as using steel wool, metal flashing, or reinforced concrete in vulnerable areas.