Rats and mice are not just unpleasant: they are a health and property hazard. Spotting them early is the key to avoiding a major infestation.
The 4 signs of an infestation
- Droppings: small, black, rice-grain shaped for mice (3–6 mm), larger for rats (1–2 cm). Often along walls or near food.
- Noises: scratching and scurrying at night in walls, false ceilings or lofts.
- Gnaw marks: cables, packaging, wood or plastic marked by teeth.
- Runs: greasy smears along walls, small footprints in dust.
Mouse or rat?
| Mouse | Rat | |
|---|---|---|
| Body length | 6–10 cm | 20–25 cm |
| Droppings | 3–6 mm | 1–2 cm |
| Where | Cupboards, walls, insulation | Cellars, garages, sewers, outdoors |
Why act fast?
- Health risks: diseases (leptospirosis, salmonellosis) spread through urine and droppings.
- Damage: gnawed cables, risk of short circuits and fire.
- Rapid breeding: a small problem quickly becomes an invasion.
A lasting professional solution
Diagnosis, finding entry points, secure bait stations and proofing: my method treats the problem at the source. Prices and details on the rat and mouse control page.