Rats, mice, and other rodents are common home pests. They reproduce quickly and can cause a number of problems—many of which go unnoticed for some time because homeowners delay calling residential pest control professionals. This is often due to buying into common myths. You’ll find several of the most common below and the truth behind them.

Debunking Myths About Rodents

1. They’re Only in Dilapidated Areas

Rodents and filth go hand in hand, but they aren’t married. Rats can be found in the nicest of homes as well as the dingiest areas. All they require is shelter, food, and water.

They usually enter along tree branches, openings in the exterior or roofing, or through an open door. Once they find a food supply, they’ll settle down and breed, creating a problem that requires residential pest control professionals.

2. They’re Attracted to Cheese

If you set out a mousetrap and a chunk of cheese to catch a rodent, don’t be surprised if you find it still there in the morning. Cheese isn’t the preferred food for rats and mice. They instead enjoy seeds, peanuts, fruit, and small slices of meat. These are more flavorful, and if moist, will attract both hungry and thirsty rodents.

3. A Cat Will Keep Rats Away

Owning a cat is often pitched as the solution to a rat problem. While some are avid hunters that will contribute, the average domesticated house cat is unlikely to participate. These cats no longer hunt, so they won’t actively seek out rats. The sight of them lounging on the floor may scare a rat, but they’ll simply find another route around a lazy feline.

4. Rats Don’t Carry Diseases Anymore

Rats carrying the Bubonic plague wiped out a significant portion of Europeans between 1347-1351. Many homeowners believe that they no longer carry diseases and don’t pose a threat, which isn’t true. Rats can carry salmonella, hantavirus, tularemia, and many other dangerous illnesses.

Whether you’re dealing with a rodent problem or just want to stay ahead of issues, the team at Pest-Ex Exterminating Company LLC will assist. This residential pest control company has served Dothan, AL, since 1956, addressing, bed bugs, fleas, roaches, rodents, and more. They’ll carefully inspect your property and then provide long-term solutions to keep it pest-free. Call (334) 794-5903 to schedule an inspection and visit their website to learn more about their services.