What This Blog Covers
- How common rodent infestations are in Atlanta
- Early signs of rodents in your home
- Why rodents are dangerous to your family and property
- Common myths about rodents — and the truth behind them
- How rodents get inside homes
- Tips to prevent infestations
- Why professional rodent control is often the most effective solution
How Common Are Rodent Infestations?
Rodents are the most common mammals in the United States, and Atlanta consistently ranks among the top cities for rodent problems. If you’re a homeowner in the area, being vigilant is key to keeping these destructive pests out of your house.
Signs of a Rodent Infestation
Unlike some pests, mice and rats leave early warning signs. Keep an eye out for:
- Scratching or scurrying noises in walls or ceilings
- Gnaw marks on furniture, food packaging, or wires
- Rodent droppings around your home
- Nesting materials under appliances, in storage areas, or behind furniture
- Greasy rub marks along walls or baseboards
Why You Don’t Want Mice or Rats in Your Home
Rodents aren’t just a nuisance; they’re a serious threat to your health and property. They can:
- Spread diseases like hantavirus, salmonellosis, leptospirosis, and rat-bite fever
- Cause property damage by gnawing wires, insulation, pipes, HVAC systems, and personal belongings
- Reproduce rapidly, with a single female mouse capable of producing up to 80 babies a year
Even minor damage can lead to costly repairs, and larger problems, such as electrical fires or water damage, can result from rodent activity.
Five Common Rodent Myths
Myth 1: Cheese is the best bait for traps
Reality: Rodents prefer high-fat, high-protein foods, cereals, dried fruits, and sugary snacks over cheese.
Myth 2: Cats will eliminate infestations
Reality: While cats may catch a mouse or two, they are rarely effective against a full-blown infestation, especially with rats.
Myth 3: Rodents only infest dirty homes
Reality: Clean homes aren’t immune. While a dirtier environment may attract rodents more easily, they can still find their way into well-maintained homes in search of food, water, and shelter.
Myth 4: Seeing rodents during the day means a severe infestation
Reality: Rodents may be active during daylight hours due to hunger or water needs, and daytime sightings don’t always indicate the extent of the problem.
Myth 5: Flushing rodents down the toilet is harmless
Reality: Flushing a mouse down the toilet is not recommended. Both mice and rats can sometimes survive being flushed, and doing so can also harm your septic or sewer system. Flushing rodents can lead to clogs, backups, and other plumbing problems, so proper disposal is the safer choice.
How Rodents Get Inside
Rodents are attracted to warmth, food, and shelter — all of which your home provides. Common entry points include:
- Cracks and crevices in your foundation
- Plumbing and utility openings
- Gaps around windows, especially near overgrown shrubs or trees
- Gutters leading to roof or eave openings
- Weak exterior materials that they can gnaw through
How to Prevent Mice and Rats
Preventing rodents is easier than trying to get rid of them once they’re inside. Steps to protect your home include:
- Seal gaps, cracks, and holes — even tiny ones
- Install door sweeps and weatherstripping
- Trim vegetation around your home’s perimeter
- Remove outdoor food and water sources
- Clean gutters and downspouts
- Cover vents and cap chimneys
- Store food in airtight containers
- Take out the trash regularly
- Keep kitchens and dining areas clean
- Reduce clutter in your home
How to Get Rid of a Rodent Infestation
If you see signs of rodents in your house, call got bugs? right away. DIY methods are often ineffective and can prolong your rodent infestation, leaving them with more opportunities to spread diseases and cause destruction. Due to the problems they cause, it is best to eliminate rodents as quickly and efficiently as possible. got bugs? provides effective rodent control in North Atlanta, including Alpharetta, Johns Creek, and Smyrna. You can rely on our locally owned and family-operated pest control company to identify and resolve your rodent problem at its source. Contact us today.
This blog was originally published on February 7, 2017; it has been updated to include new information.
