Experts say these are 9 signs you’ve got a rodent problem starting

Ever feel like you might have some unwelcome roommates scurrying around your home? You’re not alone. Rodent issues are a common nuisance for many households, but knowing what to look for can make all the difference.

Here are nine telltale signs that you might have a rodent problem lurking around.

1) Unexplained Droppings

If you start finding small, dark pellets scattered around your home, you might have rodents on your hands. These droppings are often found in cupboards, along baseboards, or under sinks. According to AOL, rodent droppings are one of the most obvious signs of an infestation. It’s important to address this quickly, as droppings can carry diseases like hantavirus and salmonella.

Make sure to clean up any droppings you find immediately using gloves and disinfectant. And remember, the more droppings you find, the bigger your potential problem might be.

2) Gnaw Marks on Furniture and Wires

Rodents have a compulsive need to gnaw on things. If you notice chewed-up furniture or frayed wires, you might have some furry culprits to blame. As noted by researchers, rodents chew to keep their teeth sharp and prevent them from growing too long.

Wires are particularly attractive to rodents, which can lead to electrical problems or even fire hazards. Keep an eye out for these signs and consider calling in a professional if you suspect a problem.

3) Scratching Noises in Walls and Ceilings

Have you ever heard mysterious scratching or scurrying sounds coming from your walls or ceiling? Those noises might be a sign of rodents making themselves at home. As discussed in an article by Wiley, rodents are nocturnal and are most active at night.

If you hear these sounds, try to pinpoint the location—it might just lead you to the source of the problem. A professional pest control service can help you identify and address any infestations.

4) Foul Odors in Hidden Areas

A sudden, unexplained odor in your home might be a sign of rodents. They often leave behind a musty, ammonia-like smell that can be quite unpleasant. According to Greencare, this smell is often more noticeable in confined areas like pantries and crawl spaces.

If you notice a persistent odor that doesn’t seem to go away with cleaning, it might be time to investigate further. The source could be a nest or even a deceased rodent.

5) Nests Made of Shredded Material

Rodents love to make cozy nests out of whatever they can find. If you come across piles of shredded paper, fabric, or insulation, you might have discovered a rodent’s home. These nests are often hidden in dark, secluded spots.

Keep an eye out for these signs, especially in basements, attics, and garages. Removing these nests can help disrupt their environment, but it’s crucial to identify and seal entry points to prevent future infestations.

6) Tracks and Runways

Rodents tend to stick to the same paths as they move around your home, leaving behind tracks and runways. Look for smudge marks, footprints, or tail marks in dusty areas or along walls. Over time, these paths can become quite distinct.

Once you identify these routes, you can set traps or bait stations along them to catch the intruders. Make sure to use gloves when handling traps to avoid transferring your scent, which can deter rodents from approaching.

7) Unusual Pet Behavior

Ever notice your dog or cat acting a bit strange? They might be picking up on a rodent issue that you’ve missed. Pets often hear or smell rodents long before humans do. They might stare at walls, paw at certain spots, or appear agitated.

Pay attention to these behaviors, as they might lead you to hidden rodent activity. If your pet is acting out of character, it might be worth a closer inspection of your home.

8) Grease Marks Along Walls

Rodents have greasy fur that leaves behind marks as they travel along walls. These grease marks are often found at the base of walls, near corners, or along runways. These signs can help you determine the extent of the infestation.

Look for these telltale marks in areas where you suspect rodent activity. Cleaning them up and sealing entry points can help reduce the chances of future visits from these unwanted guests.

9) Damaged Food Packages and Containers

If you’re finding holes in food packaging or gnawed containers in your pantry, you might have some hungry intruders. Rodents are opportunistic feeders and will chew through cardboard, plastic, and other materials to get to food.

Store food in airtight, rodent-proof containers to prevent access. Regularly inspect your pantry for signs of tampering, and take action if you find evidence of rodent activity.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.