Pest control experts have outlined the most important indicators of a rodent infestation in your house, and the steps you can take to stop it from getting worse.
Dealing with pests is never pleasant, but if they aren't driven out of your home, it can become highly unhygienic and lead to diseases running riot. The quicker the problem is identified, the easier it is to sort out - so Paul Blackhurst, head of Technical Academy at Rentokil Pest Control, has shared his expertise on the telltale signs of a rodent infestation.
He's also suggested a quick and humane to deal with the issue and leave your home free from pests this summer. The specialist spoke to the Express to share his knowledge about the things you may see, smell or hear when rodents are hiding in your house.
Signs you have a rodent problem
Smell and sound: In more serious infestations, rats and mice may have a very strong ammonia stench. On top of this, rodents are often very noisy, making audible scrabbling, scratching or squeaking noises.
Droppings: Rats leave dark, spindle-shaped droppings up to 14mm in size, whereas mice droppings are typically 5mm and oval-shaped.
Smears: Because of their bad eyesight, rodents use skirting boards to navigate around rooms. You may notice grease marks where they have brushed up against your walls and surfaces.
Footprints: Rats can leave foot and tail marks in dusty, less-used areas of your property such as the attic or basement. Shining a strong flashlight at a low angle should reveal tracks clearly.
You can also try sprinkling talc or fine flour on the floor at night and check for fresh tracks in the morning to confirm if the infestation is active.
Burrows: Brown rats are well known for digging and excavating extensive burrow systems for shelter, food storage and nesting. They build burrows next to structures, such as sheds or garages, and are also found in secluded, well-vegetated areas such as gardens.
Damage: Gnawing marks, shredded paper and damage to food storage containers are all common signs of rodent activity.
Paul says that older homes are more at risk of an infestation due to having more holes in their exteriors. Mice can fit through tiny gaps the size of an average ballpoint pen thanks to their flexible ribcages, and can enter homes very easily.
Areas of the home which are attractive to rodents include cavity walls, suspended ceilings and dark cupboards.
Paul added: "Mice and rats feel secure in these confined spaces and are excellent climbers, using pipes, cabling and cavities to navigate their way around a building.”
How to remove rodents from your home
Paul says one of the most effective things you can do during an infestation is remove the rodent's sources of water, food and shelter, which should help to discourage them away.
But you shouldn't try and tackle the problem yourself if it's particularly bad.
The expert said: "Knowing when to call in professional help is really important. If you do see any obvious holes in the exterior of your premises, or suspect that your drains may have been compromised, then be sure to talk to a professional pest controller."
As for homes with cats and dogs, Paul said they "can act as deterrents for rodents in the areas of the home that they can reach, although this is not a foolproof method of keeping your home free from this all-too-common pest problem".
"Rats and mice are known to carry bacteria such as leptospirosis, which can be transmitted to other animals. In addition, mice are a known intermediate carrier of Toxoplasmosis which can be passed onto cats," he warned.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our newsletter here.
