Whether you saw a critter scurrying across your kitchen floor or you've been hearing some movement in your walls, your first instinct will likely be to call for pest control. However, it often pays to first determine what animal you're dealing with, since the professionals will need to use methods tailored to the problem. If you can't tell whether you have a rat or mouse, learn more about these furry pests below.

Mice

Both rats and mice are rodents, which means they have prominent teeth that never stop growing. However, adult mice are considerably smaller than adult rats are. In fact, mice are typically only one-fifth to one-tenth as large and heavy as rats, which means they're often quieter when moving through your walls. Mice also have long, thin tails that are much longer than their bodies and covered in fine fur. Finally, they have triangular snouts, large, round ears, and tiny paws.

Mice are typically more curious than rats and are therefore more susceptible to pest control methods, such as traps. They also enjoy climbing and will explore attics, upper shelves, and other high locations more readily than rats typically do.

Rats

Rats usually weigh between six and 12 ounces, though some can weigh well over a pound. They have thick, hairless tails about as long as the rest of their bodies, and large front and back paws. Their ears are also considerably smaller than mice's and are more wedge-shaped than round. Additionally, they consume a lot more food and water per day than mice, so their presence in your kitchen will likely be more apparent.

Rats can climb but don't do it as enthusiastically as mice do, so they're more likely to remain in lower levels of your house. They also have stronger teeth than mice and may be able to chew through thicker containers or even aluminum cans.

If you have mice or rats on your property, contact Acme Pest Control Co Inc. With locations in Concord and Mooresville, NC, they’ve offered reliable pest control services to residents throughout Cabarrus County and the Piedmont area since 1946. Call (704) 786-4166 to make an appointment today, or visit their website to learn more about their rodent removal services.