Think You Might Have Rats? Here’s How to Know for Sure

Rats are more than a nuisance — they’re a serious health risk and can cause major damage to homes and businesses. At Milton Keynes Pest Controllers, we’re called out every week to properties where rats have been nesting unnoticed for weeks or even months.

If you’re unsure whether you’ve got a rat problem, here are the 10 most common signs of a rat infestation to look out for.

 1. Rat Droppings

One of the clearest signs. Rat droppings are dark, pellet-shaped, and about 1–2 cm long. You’ll often find them under kitchen units, in lofts, or behind appliances.

 2. Gnaw Marks on Furniture or Wiring

Rats constantly gnaw to keep their teeth from overgrowing. If you notice bite marks on wood, plastic, cables, or skirting boards, that’s a strong indicator.

 3. Scratching or Scuttling Noises

Hearing movement in your walls, ceiling, or loft at night? Rats are nocturnal and often heard before they’re seen.

 4. Grease Marks and Smears

Rats leave dark, greasy trails along walls and skirting as they travel the same routes repeatedly.

 5. Nests and Shredded Materials

Rats build nests from shredded paper, insulation, or soft fabrics. Check loft spaces, behind kickboards, or rarely used cupboards.

 6. Unpleasant Smell

A musky, ammonia-like odour is a sign of urine and rat scent trails — especially strong in enclosed spaces.

 7. Damage to Food Packaging

Found holes chewed in cereal boxes, bags of rice, or pet food? Rats often target dry goods and food storage areas.

 8. Pet Behaviour Changes

Cats and dogs may sniff or scratch at areas where rats are active. If your pet is fixated on one spot, it might not be paranoia.

 9. Droppings in Loft or Crawlspaces

Rats love quiet, undisturbed areas like attics and voids. If you store things in your loft, check regularly for signs.

 10. Live Sightings

If you see a rat in the open — day or night — there’s a high chance a nest is nearby. One rat usually means more.

 Don’t Ignore the Signs – Call the Experts

Rats breed quickly and can cause:

• Structural damage

• Fire hazards (chewed wires)

• Contaminated food

• Health issues including Weil’s disease

The longer you leave it, the worse it gets. That’s why our team at Rat Control in Buckinghamshire offers fast, discreet, and effective rat control services.

 Serving Homes & Businesses Across Milton Keynes

Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, our fully qualified technicians will:
Inspect your property thoroughly
 Identify entry points and nesting areas
 Treat the infestation quickly and safely
 Offer long-term proofing and prevention advice

 Book a Rat Inspection Today

If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, don’t wait. Call Milton Keynes Pest Controllers for expert rodent control you can trust.

 Call us now or ? book online for a fast response.

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