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Rat Control 101: A Complete Guide For Longview Property Owners

dark rat near a rock wall
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The only time you should ever live with rats is if you have these rodents as pets. Most people, however, do not have pet rats. Even people that do own these creatures understand the difference between them and wild rodents that like to invade homes here in Longview.

If you have not taken the time to consider rat control in Longview and the problems these pests cause inside local homes, here are some things to think about. If you need fast help dealing with an active infestation inside your home, talk with our team at Gecko Pest Control. We would love to pay you a visit, find out what types of rats you are dealing with, and offer some detailed solutions to get and keep them out.

Physical Characteristics of Rats: How To Identify A Rat

Not all rats are the same. Although similar in size and appearance, the different types of rats in Longview are distinct. Norway rats are the largest local species. They have brown fur with intermixed black hairs, a lighter-colored underbelly, and a plumb hind section. Roof rats are smaller than roof rats and thinner as well. These rodents use their smaller/lighter frame to climb the exterior of buildings.

Both of these pests have the ability to gnaw their way through materials like wood, soft concrete, and plastic. They use this ability to invade homes. If you think your home might have a rat infestation, talk with our team about scheduling a thorough inspection. 

Property Damage Caused By Rats: The Costly Consequences

Rats are known for the problems they cause. Most common kinds of rats spread disease, are annoying, and destroy property. These pests damage property mostly with their sharp and durable teeth. If you find holes chewed through your walls or into boxes of food, this could be a clear sign of an active infestation.

Rats might also nibble on furniture legs, sever electrical wires, gnaw on water pipes, or cause tons of other damage indoors. While gathering materials for their nests, these pests will rip up fabrics, paper, insulation, and other soft or comfy materials. Stop them from doing this with some detailed rat prevention tips or with help from our professionals.

Rat Prevention Tips: Eliminating Attractants And Sealing Entry Points

Rat prevention does not have to be stressful. To make sure these pests stay out of your home, here are some simple and effective preventive measures to try.

  • Address damage to your home’s exterior that might allow rats a way to get inside.
  • Make sure your windows and doors have proper seals.
  • Keep unscreened doors and windows closed when you are not using them.
  • Clean your home regularly and reduce clutter whenever possible.
  • Address moisture problems like leaky piping and drink spills.
  • Store your food away inside air-tight containers.

For additional help dealing with the wild rats in Longview, consider bringing in our team at Gecko Pest Control.

Call The Rat Control Experts: Ensuring Safe And Effective Elimination

Rat control is not something you should attempt on your own. If these rodents are crawling around inside your home, let us know.

Our team at Gecko Pest Control understands the threats these pests pose and how to effectively identify, remove, and prevent them. With just one visit, we will help you understand your risk and find a service that will best handle the problems you are facing with potentially harmful and destructive rats. Call Gecko Pest Control now to learn more about our Longview rat removal services and find out how we will help you deal with these invasive rodents inside and around your Longview home.