Brevard County, Melbourne Rat Control Situation:
David, I have trapped 3 roof rats in the attic and have heard more this morning chewing and romping about. I have sealed all entries I to the house with exception to drain stacks on roof. I can see feces in gutters but cannot see anywhere where they could be getting into the attic. I have been working with an exterminator for two months and he's out of ideas so I was wondering what advise you may put forward. Sure would like to get rid of them for good prior to breeding season. I am in Dallas Tx area. Last December our dog caught o e in yard, this summer I caught one in shed, and I caught one in attic and pro has caught two ... But like I said there appears to be more. We have a two story stucco house in Melbourne FL. Over the past 3 years I have caught at least 30 mice in our attic, all the while searching diligently and unsuccessfully for the entry point(s). I found a few possible places and have closed them off but still catch one or two a week. I am completely stumped on this. They are only in the attic as far as I know. We do have a dryer flap-vent in a below grade window well but that leads to the basement and we don't see them there. Is there any new "scientific" way to identify entry points? Advice appreciated pls -- Matt
Melbourne Rat Control Tip of The Week
Do Rats Pose A Threat To Dogs, Cats, Or Other Pets?
Toxoplasmosis:
There is a parasite that mice and rats can become infected with that causes health conditions in dogs and cats. Toxoplasmosis can cause diarrhea and severe flu in many dogs and it can also change digestive tract functions in cats. This will often be presented as an early infection that leads to a severe flu that can make it difficult for your pet to enjoy a good quality of life. This sickness can also be spread to humans just as easily as it could be spread along to animals.
Roundworms:
Rats often carry roundworms that can be passed on to other animals in your home. There's a variety of medications that can be delivered to treat infections like roundworms. This can also be passed along to humans and if you're experiencing ongoing headaches, digestive issues, fever, or rashes it could be possible that you have been infected.
They Multiply Quickly:
The threat that rats can pose multiplies quickly because they can have an average of 84 babies throughout the course of the year. Working to manage a rat problem can be crucial in the earliest stages before it becomes worse. Without ongoing management of your rat problem, you may end up in a situation where it becomes more difficult to handle the population you are faced with.
Anxiety:
Rats may also cause anxiety in many of your pets. Hearing the ongoing noises in the walls, knowing that they're rather close by and even feeling threatened by rats can be problematic especially for the family pet. Rather than having the ongoing stress that rats can pose for your dog or cat, it may be wise to consider the option of getting a professional exterminator to manage the rat population in your home.