Common Rodent Questions

Why do I have them?

Both rats and mice are looking for shelter, food, and water. Although it is more common to find them nesting and living outside it is common for them to stay in buildings and properties if the right conditions exist. They will gain entry to properties through cracks and holes, but also through openings that have been made for utilities but the size of hole required will differ by species. As an example, an adult common house mouse can fit through a hole no bigger than a dime or squeeze through a crack the width of a pencil.

Are they dangerous?

Rats and mice have long been documented as carriers of serious disease and parasites like fleas and ticks. Some of the diseases carried by them are: -Lymphocytic choriomeningitis, or LCM – A viral infection that can cause fever, malaise, lack of appetite, muscle aches, headache, nausea and vomiting. -Salmonellosis – A bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps. -Mycoplasma – A type of bacteria which is known to cause respiratory problems and pneumonia. -Leptospirosis – A bacterial disease that can cause high fever, severe headache, chills, muscle aches and vomiting. -Dysentery – A gastrointestinal disorder that causes abdominal pain and cramps. Rats and mice can also contaminate food and inflict significant damage to residential and commercial properties.

How do I get rid of mice and rats?

By their very nature, rats and mice are elusive, shy, and fast-moving but they also possess another quality which can be used to assist in removal – a natural curiosity. It is still not easy to rid your property of rats and mice and this is where American Pest comes in. Our highly trained DC exterminators will make a thorough inspection of your property and tailor a rodent control solution to your every need, ensuring a quick and full answer to your problems.

Can I do it myself?

There are plenty of Do-It-Yourself measures available but it is not often that they are successful. It takes a trained eye to know just where to place bait and traps for maximum effect and this is just the quality American Pest’s professionals possess. Worth remembering too is the fact that chemicals and pesticides can be extremely harmful to humans and pets if mixed or used incorrectly which is why it is best to call in the professionals – American Pest. At American Pest, we are rodent exterminators for the Washington D.C. area and get rid of mice and rats for homes and businesses.

How soon can you get here?

At American Pest, we pride ourselves on our speed and level of service. For that reason, we make every effort to make sure we can be with you the same or very next day.

Is the treatment safe?

Every product used by American Pest has first been extensively tested by the EPA and registered for pest control use. Only then do we use it and apply it following a strict set of guidelines, ensuring the safety of all humans and pets.

How can I prevent this in the future?

Rats and mice are tenacious pests and it is not always feasible or possible to prevent them invading your property. However, if any cracks, holes and possible entrances in basements and walls can be filled, the risk of infestation by rats and mice can be kept to a minimum. For more information about our rodent control services in Fulton, Columbia, Alexandria, and throughout MD and Northern VA, please contact us today.