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What to do if you find signs of mice or rats

Let’s admit it: no one likes to talk about mice and rats. Overshadowed by other prevalent pests like scorpions and cockroaches, it’s easy to underestimate the threat of a rodent infestation. This guide can help you determine if you have a problem or not. If you do, KY-KO Pest Prevention can make sure these small mammals get out of your home—and stay out.

What’s the difference?

Both are hardy survivors that have become accustomed to living in the refuse of humanity.

Throughout most of human history, rats have taken on a bad reputation as a pest that can spread disease and filth. Now synonymous with the Black Plague—although, to be fair, the real problem was the fleas they carried—rats are an unwanted house guest. In Arizona, three species—brown, black, and roof rats—thrive. Larger than mice, they are omnivores, and will prey on creatures smaller than them. They’re willing travelers that will venture far from their home to get at what they’re looking for.

Mice are smaller than rats, and combine excellent senses with great scavenging instincts and the ability to squeeze into tight spaces (less than 1/4 of an inch). They’re rapid breeders that can quickly establish a nest inside your home, from which they’ll venture short distances to find food.

How do I tell if I have a rodent problem?

You may stumble across one of them at night, but—for the most part—both rats and mice like to avoid humans. Instead, look for droppings on the floor. Mice feces are musty smelling, while rat feces are darker in color. If you find that your walls or wooden furniture has tiny gnaw marks, that’s another sign. Of course, the easiest way to get the peace of mind of knowing for sure is to get in contact with KY-KO.

Here are some other places that rodents like to hide out in:

  • Any trash on the ground
  • Around hot water heaters and other heating systems
  • Inside of crawlspaces, ceilings, and walls
  • Under counters and behind cabinets

How do I prevent rodents from getting into my home?

It can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. It much easier to prevent a rodent infestation than it is to fix one. After all, once they’re in your house, they’ll establish a breeding population.

Make your home an unwelcoming place—by rodent standards—with these tips:

  • Clean up any food that isn’t consumed by your pets, and never store it outside with open air access
  • Pick up your trash and garbage
  • Try to eliminate ground-level entry points

What do I do if I have rats and mice?

Give us a call, or schedule service with us online. We’ll help you evict your unwanted rodent guests.