Discovering rat poop in your home can be unsettling, to say the least. Not only is it a clear sign that you have unwanted rodent guests, but it also poses serious health risks to you and your family. At Six Brothers Pest Control, we understand how alarming it can be to find rat droppings, and we’re here to guide you through the steps you should take to address the issue safely and effectively. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what rat poop looks like, the dangers it presents, and what to do if you find it in your home. Let’s dive in.

What Does Rat Poop Look Like?

Before we discuss what to do if you find rat poop, it’s important to know how to identify it. Rat droppings are typically dark brown or black and have a cylindrical shape with pointed ends. They are about ½ to ¾ of an inch long, depending on the size of the rat. Fresh rat poop will be soft and shiny, while older droppings will become dry and crumbly.

If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with rat poop or droppings from another pest (like mice or cockroaches), it’s a good idea to consult a professional pest control service like Six Brothers Pest Control. Proper identification is crucial for effective treatment.

Why Is Rat Poop Dangerous?

Rat poop isn’t just gross—it’s a serious health hazard. Rats are known carriers of numerous diseases, many of which can be transmitted to humans through their droppings. Here are some of the risks associated with rat poop:

Hantavirus: This potentially life-threatening disease is transmitted through the inhalation of dust particles contaminated with rat droppings, urine, or saliva. Symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and severe respiratory issues.
Salmonella: Rat poop can contaminate food and surfaces, leading to salmonella poisoning. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.
Leptospirosis: This bacterial infection can be contracted through contact with water, soil, or food contaminated with rat urine or feces. It can cause kidney damage, liver failure, and even death if left untreated.
Rat-Bite Fever: Although this disease is typically transmitted through bites or scratches from infected rats, it can also be contracted through contact with rat poop.

Given these risks, it’s essential to handle rat poop with extreme caution and take immediate action if you find it in your home.

What To Do If You Find Rat Poop

If you discover rat poop in your home, don’t panic. Follow these steps to address the issue safely and effectively:

1. Identify The Problem Areas

Start by determining where the rat poop is located. Common areas include attics, basements, kitchens, garages, and crawl spaces. Look for other signs of a rat infestation, such as gnaw marks, nesting materials, or grease stains along walls (rats often leave smudges as they travel the same paths repeatedly).

2. Avoid Direct Contact

Never touch rat poop with your bare hands. Always wear protective gear, including gloves, a face mask, and even goggles if you’re cleaning a large area. This will help protect you from inhaling harmful particles or coming into direct contact with bacteria.

3. Ventilate The Area

Before you start cleaning, open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate. This will help reduce the concentration of airborne particles that could carry diseases like hantavirus.

4. Clean Up The Droppings

To clean rat poop safely, follow these steps:

Spray the droppings with a disinfectant or a mixture of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). This will help kill any bacteria or viruses present.
Let the solution sit for at least 5 minutes to ensure it’s effective.
Use paper towels or disposable rags to pick up the droppings. Avoid using a vacuum cleaner, as this can stir up dust and spread contaminants.
Place the droppings and cleaning materials in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of them in an outdoor trash bin.
Wipe down the area with disinfectant again to ensure it’s thoroughly clean.

5. Sanitize Contaminated Items

If rat poop has come into contact with any surfaces, utensils, or food items, sanitize or dispose of them immediately. Wash dishes and utensils in hot, soapy water, and discard any food that may have been contaminated.

6. Seal Entry Points

Once you’ve cleaned up the rat poop, it’s time to prevent future infestations. Rats can squeeze through incredibly small gaps, so inspect your home for potential entry points. Seal cracks in walls, gaps around doors and windows, and holes in your roof or foundation. Use materials like steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh, as rats can easily chew through softer materials.

7. Set Traps Or Baits

To address the current infestation, set traps or baits in areas where you’ve found rat poop. Be sure to place them out of reach of children and pets. If you’re unsure how to proceed, Six Brothers Pest Control can help you choose the right products and strategies for your situation.

8. Monitor The Situation

Keep an eye out for additional signs of rat activity, such as new droppings, gnaw marks, or unusual noises. If the problem persists, it’s time to call in the professionals.

When to Call Six Brothers Pest Control

While DIY methods can be effective for small infestations, a larger or recurring rat problem often requires professional intervention. Here’s when you should consider calling Six Brothers Pest Control:

You’re Unsure About the Extent of the Infestation: If you’ve found rat poop but aren’t sure how many rats are in your home, a professional inspection can provide clarity.
The Infestation Persists: If you’ve tried trapping and sealing entry points but are still seeing signs of rats, it’s time to bring in the experts.
You’re Concerned About Health Risks: Handling rat poop and dealing with an infestation can be dangerous. Our team has the training and equipment to handle the situation safely.
You Want Preventative Measures: At Six Brothers Pest Control, we don’t just eliminate current infestations—we also help you take steps to prevent future problems.

Our experienced technicians use safe, effective methods to eliminate rats and other pests from your home. We’ll work with you to develop a customized plan that addresses your specific needs and ensures your home stays rat-free.

Preventing Rat Infestations In The Future

Once you’ve dealt with the immediate issue of rat poop, it’s important to take steps to prevent future infestations. Here are some tips:

Keep Your Home Clean: Rats are attracted to food sources, so keep your kitchen and dining areas clean. Store food in airtight containers, and don’t leave pet food out overnight.
Eliminate Clutter: Rats love to hide in cluttered areas. Keep your home, garage, and yard tidy to reduce potential nesting sites.
Secure Your Trash: Use trash cans with tight-fitting lids, and avoid leaving bags of garbage outside for extended periods.
Trim Trees and Shrubs: Rats can use overhanging branches to access your roof. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed away from your home.
Schedule Regular Inspections: Consider scheduling regular pest control inspections with Six Brothers Pest Control to catch potential problems early.

Why Choose Six Brothers Pest Control?

At Six Brothers Pest Control, we’re committed to providing top-notch pest control services that keep your home safe and comfortable. Here’s what sets us apart:

Experienced Technicians: Our team has the knowledge and expertise to handle even the toughest pest problems.
Eco-Friendly Solutions: We use environmentally friendly products and methods to protect your family and the planet.
Customized Plans: We understand that every home is different, so we tailor our services to meet your specific needs.
Exceptional Customer Service: Your satisfaction is our top priority. We’re here to answer your questions and provide support every step of the way.

Conclusion

Finding rat poop in your home is never a pleasant experience, but it’s important to act quickly and safely to address the issue. By following the steps outlined above, you can protect your home and your family from the dangers of a rat infestation. And if you need professional help, Six Brothers Pest Control is just a phone call away.

Don’t let rat poop take over your home—contact Six Brothers Pest Control today for expert rodent removal and prevention services. Together, we’ll ensure your home stays clean, safe, and pest-free.