Rats are a common problem in many homes and can cause extensive damage to properties, but they can also be dangerous - especially if they carry any fatal diseases. In this article, we'll take a look at 10 things you need to know about rats and their potential for spreading disease. Pest Control Essendon will learn how to recognize the signs of an infestation, how to protect yourself from rat-borne illnesses, and what steps you can take to prevent future problems. Read on for more information!

What to do if you have a Rat Problem

If you have a rat problem, you first need to figure out where they are coming from. Inspect your home and look for any openings that rats could use to get inside. Once you've found the point of entry, seal it with steel wool or wire mesh.

Next, set up traps around your home to catch the rats. Be sure to place them in areas where you've seen rat activity or near their point of entry. Check the traps regularly and dispose of any caught rats immediately.

You can also try using rat poison, but be careful with this method as it can be dangerous to people and pets if not used properly. If you do choose to use poison, baits should be placed in tamper-resistant bait stations to avoid accidental exposure.

Finally, keep your home clean and free of clutter as much as possible. Rats love to hide in dark, cluttered areas, so making your home as tidy as possible will help deter them from setting up shop there.

Diseases Rats Can Spread

There are a number of diseases that rats can spread to humans and other animals. Some of these diseases include:

• -Salmonellosis: This is a bacterial infection that can cause food poisoning. It can be contracted by consuming contaminated food or water, or by contacting infected rodents.
• -Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome: This is a rare but potentially fatal disease that is spread through contact with infected rodent droppings.
• -Leptospirosis: This is a bacterial infection that can cause fever, muscle aches, and vomiting. It can be contracted by coming into contact with contaminated water or soil.
• -Tularemia: This is a bacterial infection that can cause fever, skin ulcers, and lymph node swelling. It can be contracted by coming into contact with infected rodents or their carcasses.

How To Prevent Rats from Coming Into Your Home

Preventing rats from entering your home in the first place is always the best course of action. Here are a few tips on how to do that:

• Seal up any cracks or holes on the outside of your home, including around doors and windows.
• Keep your yard free of clutter and debris where rats could hide.
• Trim back trees and bushes near your house so rats can't use them as bridges to get to your roof.
• Remove any food sources that might attract rats, such as pet food, bird seed, or garbage.

How To Deal With A Rat Infestation

If you have a rat problem, you first need to figure out how they are getting into your home. Once you know how they are getting in, you can seal up those entry points and prevent them from coming back. You also need to figure out where they are nesting and remove any food or water sources that might be attracting them. Finally, you need to set up traps to catch the rats and get rid of them for good.