Q&A for How to Keep Your Home Free of Rodents

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How can I make my property less attractive to rats?

Chris Parker
Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control
Chris Parker is the Founder of Parker Eco Pest Control, a sustainable pest control service in Seattle, Washington. Since 2016, Chris has been specializing in Integrated Pest Management and doesn’t use any chemicals for pest removal. He offers removal services for ants, rodents, fleas, spiders, wasps, and more. Chris is a certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator in Washington State and received his bachelor’s from the University of Washington.

Chris Parker

Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control

Expert Answer

Keeping your house impeccably maintained is going to help. Also, physically sealing up your house is important if you're experiencing rodent issues. If a hole is bigger than a dime, a rodent can fit through it.

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If I cover a gravel floor with a concrete block, will that keep the rats from coming into my home through that floor?

Community Answer

Yes, since the rats won't be able to get through the block.

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If there is no water source indoors, do mice/rats have to exit and re-enter your house daily?

HumanBeing

Top Answerer

No. They can live off the water in what they eat for a few days.

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Question

Are there scents that mice don't like?

HumanBeing

Top Answerer

The smell of a cat is not a favourite smell of mice.

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Question

Can I fill holes with fiberglass to keep rats out?

Community Answer

No, I don't recommend this; fiberglass/insulation is great nesting material. Instead, use steel wool. They can't chew through it.

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Question

What can I spray to repel rats?

Community Answer

You can spray poison. You can also use peppermint or garlic. Spicy things or salt work well too.

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Question

What do I do if there's a hole behind the fridge that has rodents coming out of it?

Community Answer

Carefully move the fridge to gain access to the hole, then stuff the hole with steel wool. Rodents won't chew through it.

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Question

Where do I find the names of some companies that can seal up the exterior of my house and insulation in my basement?

Community Answer

You can search for names on the internet. Also, you can ask people. Some companies are, Terminix, Trapping and Removing Critter control, and Ehrlich Pest Control.

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I’m worried about getting diseases from rats and mice. Is that likely?

Tobias

Top Answerer

Yes, you can get diseases from mice/rats. What diseases you could get depend on what type of contact you had with the rodent. For example, some diseases are more commonly transmitted by bites/scratches, while some diseases are more commonly caused by contact with rodent waste. A few diseases you can get from rodents include rabies, leptospirosis, rat bite fever, salmonellosis, and even the plague. However, many of these diseases are somewhat rare, and your likelihood of getting them can depend on several factors, including geographical location.

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