Rodents and insects can be a real problem for homeowners and businesses. A mouse can enter your home through an opening that is the size of a nickel. Rats can chew through wiring in an attic or behind walls, causing extensive damage to your property. Insects such as termites, ants, and spiders can also cause extensive damage if left untreated. It’s important to watch out for signs of infestation early on so that you can take preventative measures before pests become too much to handle by yourself.

Here are some tips from pest control experts:

Rodents and Insects Spread Disease

While most people know that pests can damage property, they don’t always think about the other problems with an infestation. Rodent proofing is the best way to keep these varmints out of your home or office. Rodents spread disease through their droppings, insects spread disease through their bites, and in multi unit buildings, these can cause serious problems. Rats are known carriers of many diseases including salmonella food poisoning. Fleas carry typhoid fever. Tapeworms can lead to stomach issues, vitamin deficiencies and more.

A mouse can enter your home through an opening that is the size of a nickel. A rat can squeeze through a hole that is the size of a quarter. A mouse can climb up a pipe or wire that is the size of a pencil, as well. These are the reasons why pest control is so important.

Get a Cat

If you’re not allergic, then get a cat. Cats are natural predators of mice and rats, and they can be trained to hunt the rodents that plague your home. Their hunting prowess will keep the rodent population down, while also keeping them away from your property and belongings. Cats are a safer alternative than harmful poisons that may sicken children or pets who encounter them.

Trim Your Landscaping

Keep bushes, plants, and trees trimmed away from the exterior of your home. Maintain grass that is cut at least once per week, with no tall grass left to provide nesting grounds for mice and rats. Keep garbage cans clean and rodent-proof to discourage animals from using them as a source of food or shelter. Keep compost bins away from the house so that they don’t attract rats looking for a place to nest or hide. When you regularly walk the exterior of your home, look for places where mice and rats could get in and make sure to fill in those spots.

Clean Pet Food Dishes

Clean pet food dishes daily; do not let them sit overnight within an animal’s reach. This gives less opportunity for rodents and insects to get into something they enjoy. Rodents are attracted by food sources. They will scavenge through your garbage or compost bins looking for scraps to eat—especially if they feel threatened at home and need more food than usual. If they get in your home, they will look for easy sources of food like pet food dishes.

Watch for Signs

Cockroaches, ants, termites, and other pests often leave signs that they are in your home. Pest control experts recommend looking for droppings, skins of cockroaches, chew marks, bedding piles, and more when you’re looking for signs of infestation. There are things you can do to fill in holes outside and to set bait inside. If you have termites or roaches, you’ll need a professional to come in to ensure that you get the right kind of bait, traps, and even sprays. They make options that are not harmful to pets once dried.

Watch for Rotting Wood

Rotting wood is an indicator that there may be pests. Rotting wood from wood-destroying organisms like beetles or termites can wreak havoc on your home. It’s important to take care of wood rot and inspect the areas where you see the rot. This will give indications of whether there are termites or other pests lurking in your home.

Final Thoughts

It’s important to be proactive about rodents and pest control to protect your property. Rodents can be a real problem for homeowners and businesses, and they can cause structural damage if left unchecked. Additionally, they can carry diseases and make you and your family sick.