How to Keep Rats Out of Your Home
The warmer weather that's arriving is sure to bring out all the pests. You'll probably start seeing mosquitoes, ants, roaches, and even mice. One pest that you don't want to see is the rat. Rats are the last pests you want inside your home. They carry diseases and they can become aggressive. Not only that, but they can be extremely difficult to get rid of. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to keep rats away. Here are four of those steps for you to utilize.
Feed Your Pets Indoors
If you've got pets, you want to make sure that you feed and water them indoors. Rats are going to go where food and water is plentiful and easy to get to. If your pets' food and water bowls are outside, rats are going to come calling. It's also a good idea to keep the bags of bulk food inside the house, as well.
Keep All Seed in Airtight Containers
Now that spring is here, you've probably started in on your landscaping. You might have also started feeding the local birds that are visiting your yard. If you have, you'll need to give your seed special handling. Bird seed and grass seed should be kept in airtight containers. You might not realize this, but rats will eat the seed as quickly as they will the dog and cat food.
Take Special Care with Your Trash
When it comes to your trash, you'll need to give it special handling, especially if you want to keep the rats away. First, keep the area around your trash cans clean and free of debris. Second, use scented trash bags in your bathroom and kitchen waste baskets. Finally, always keep the lids on your trash cans. Following these simple tips will help keep rodents away from your trash cans.
Call an Exterminator Right Away
If you've discovered rats around your home, you'll need to call an exterminator right away. Rats can be difficult to get rid of once they find a home that they like. Once they've moved into your home, they'll build nests, have their babies, and attract other adult rats. Before long, you'll have an out-of-control infestation. Calling an exterminator as quickly as possible will ensure that the problem is eradicated before it can become a full-blown infestation.
Don't let rats take over your home. Use the methods described above to keep your home a rat-free environment. For more information, contact local professionals like those found at Xtermco Inc.