What Pleasanton Property Owners Ought to Know About Rats

There are two main rat species that often get inside area properties : the Norway rat and the roof rat. These are both nocturnal species, and they have some similarities, but also key differences. So, we've put together a brief guide to help you identify rats in the area.
 
The Norway rat is a brown-grey color with a blunt muzzle, and small eyes and ears. They prefer to live in cluttered areas, and they are great swimmers, but not great climbers. This means they are usually found near ground level.
 
Roof rats, on the other hand, are dark brown with scaly tails, and large ears and eyes. As their name suggests, they are often found in roofs, attics, and upper levels of buildings, as they are adept climbers. 

Given how prevalent rats are in Pleasanton and most of the United States, it’s easy to assume they can’t really be that bad. While not all rat infestations are going to cause major issues, they all have the potential to do so.
 
First of all, rats can cause a lot of property damage through their constant gnawing. They are able to chew through many materials, such as plastic, wires, pipes, drywall, and wood. This can cause damage to your personal items, and even cause safety hazards if rats destroy the internal structures of your home or business.
 
Second, and even more concerning, is the fact that rats pose many risks to your health. These rodents can carry many diseases, including salmonella and hantavirus, and also spread parasites as mentioned at the beginning of this article. Along with the risk of illness, rats can cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks, and the build-up of their fur or droppings can lead to respiratory problems. 

Since rats are able to chew through even rather sturdy materials, and because they can fit through holes the size of a quarter, it can be difficult to completely prevent them. But, there are some things you can do to make it harder for them to come inside, and to make your property less appealing to them. These tips are some of the best ways to deter rats, as well as other rodents:

Rats aren’t safe to have around your property, as they can put your health, and the health of others around you, at risk. If you have noticed any signs of a rat infestation, the safest and most reliable way to get rid of them is through help from the experts at Patriot Pest Management. We provide both residential and commercial pest control, and we are a family and veteran-owned company with over 40 years of combined experience. Because of this, we value our community and providing high-quality, affordable services.
 
To schedule your inspection, or to learn more about our rodent control options, give us a call at (925) 447-7100, or use our online contact form to reach out.