What should you do if rats are scratching? - briefly
Identify and seal all possible entry points, deploy appropriate traps (snap or live‑catch), and contact a licensed pest‑control professional to ensure complete removal.
What should you do if rats are scratching? - in detail
If you notice rodents creating scratching sounds in walls, ceilings, or other concealed areas, immediate action is required to prevent damage and disease.
First, confirm the presence of pests. Listen for consistent scratching at night, look for droppings, gnaw marks, or shredded material. Identify entry points by inspecting gaps around pipes, vents, and foundation cracks.
Next, eliminate food sources. Store all food in sealed containers, clean up spills promptly, and dispose of garbage in tightly fitted lids. Remove pet feed after each meal and keep compost bins away from the building.
Seal all potential ingress routes. Use steel wool, metal flashing, or concrete caulk to close holes larger than a quarter inch. Install door sweeps and repair damaged screens.
Implement a trapping strategy. Place snap traps or electronic devices along walls, behind appliances, and near suspected activity zones. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or cat food, and check traps daily. Dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations.
Apply a targeted rodenticide only if trapping proves insufficient and local laws permit. Follow label instructions precisely, keep the product out of reach of children and pets, and consider using tamper‑resistant bait stations.
If the infestation persists or structural damage is evident, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. They can conduct a comprehensive inspection, apply advanced exclusion techniques, and provide ongoing monitoring.
Finally, protect health. Wear disposable gloves and a mask when handling droppings or cleaning contaminated areas. Disinfect surfaces with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) after removal of debris. Monitor household members for symptoms such as fever, chills, or respiratory issues, and seek medical advice if needed.
By confirming activity, removing attractants, sealing entryways, employing traps or baits, and, when necessary, calling experts, you can effectively address scratching rodents and safeguard both property and health.