Rat infestation frequently includes the smallest signs, like nests, scratches, gnaw marks, and excrement. In addition to being one of the awful things to come across, rat poop can potentially spread illnesses, including tularemia, leptospirosis, and salmonella infection. Knowing how to recognize rat droppings is crucial since they can point to an infestation nearby.
This article will cover all you need to know about rat poop, including what rat droppings look like and other interesting details. If you notice any rat droppings about your house, it is possible that you have a rodent infestation and require professional assistance from rodent exterminators like Bay Area Rodent Solutions.
What does rat poop look like?
Rat feces are typically found in huge clusters and are usually 1/2 to 3/4 inches long, shiny black when fresh, gray, and dustier when old. They resemble an olive in size and form and are frequently found next to insulation.
Where can you usually find rat poop?
Rats spend a lot of time above ground because they are skilled climbers. They are often found in attics, on top of storage shelves, on roofs, and in trees. In regions where they commonly congregate, you can find their droppings all over the place. Droppings can be found in prominent, open locations like garages, basements, crawl spaces, along walls, etc.
What does rat poop smell like?
Rat poop smells. However, the smell is unidentifiable, unlike a rat’s urine. If there is a presence of rat poop at home, there is undoubtedly urine that comes with it, so the offensive odor that one can smell would most likely be from the urine.
What’s the difference between Rat poop and Mouse poop?
Knowing the differences between mouse and rat feces will help you identify the type of pest you have. Typically, rat feces are brown or black. Each piece has harsh tips and is about the size of a raisin. In contrast, mouse droppings are considerably smaller—about the size of a grain of rice. These pellets are similar in color but have pointed ends.
How to safely clean a Rat poop?
Open the windows and doors.
- Before starting to clean, let the space breathe for at least 30 minutes.
Put on safety gear.
- Use rubber gloves to prevent direct contact with the garbage; a face mask to prevent dust inhalation (diseases can be spread through inhaling polluted dust); and you might even want to use safety goggles to prevent contaminated dust from getting into your eyes.
Spray with a 10% chlorine bleach solution.
- Spray the droppings with a solution made by combining 360 milliliters of chlorine bleach and 5 liters of hot water. Avoid sweeping or vacuuming since doing so will spread viruses into the air and collect them on your broom or in your vacuum.
With a paper towel, clean up the droppings.
- After that, put them in a plastic bag and close them. Include the paper towels in the plastic bag that you seal with a sealer. Place the plastic bags in the trash outside of your house.
Apply a disinfectant to all surfaces, including floors.
- Use the same 10% chlorine bleach solution. To dry, use a paper towel.
Sanitize your hands.
- To clean your hands, wash them with hot water and antiseptic. Remember to scrub the area around your wrists and under your nails.
How to Prevent a Rat Infestation
Dealing with pests like rats can feel like it’s consuming your life. If you notice signs like drooping or poop, take precautions before attempting to clean up. For effective and safer solutions, contact Bay Area Rodent Solutions. Our professionals help eliminate rats and the mess they bring, so you don’t have to worry about these chaotic creatures.