What do rats gnaw in an apartment? - briefly
In a residential unit, rats commonly chew electrical wiring, wooden structures, insulation, plastic containers, and food packaging. These items supply the protein‑rich material they need and create pathways for further damage.
What do rats gnaw in an apartment? - in detail
Rats in residential units target materials that are soft enough to be worn down by their continuously growing incisors. Their chewing activity serves to keep teeth at a functional length and to create access routes for nesting and movement.
Common objects subjected to gnawing include:
- Electrical wiring insulation, especially PVC or rubber sheaths, which can expose live conductors and create fire hazards.
- Plastic components such as pipe caps, faucet handles, and food‑storage containers; the material yields easily to repeated bites.
- Wooden structures, including baseboard trim, door frames, and furniture legs; rats remove splinters to create nesting material.
- Cardboard and paper products like boxes, receipts, and books; fibers are readily chewed and used for bedding.
- Fabric and upholstery, particularly cotton, polyester, and wool blends; these provide both food and insulation.
- Sealant and caulking around windows, doors, and pipe penetrations; chewing compromises the airtight barrier and facilitates further entry.
- Soft metal items such as copper tubing or aluminum foil; although harder, rats can gnaw thin sections to access the underlying material.
In addition to these, rats may bite into food packaging, chew through insulation foam, and damage shower curtains or blinds. Their activity often leaves visible bite marks, frayed edges, or shredded material, indicating the need for immediate remediation to prevent structural damage and health risks.