Are Rats in Drains Driving You Round the U-bend?

Sewage systems and your drains are the perfect living environment for the common brown rat (Rattus Norvegicus). Thames Water explain that the more urban an area is, the more chance there is that rats will nest in sewers. So, if you are experiencing problems with rats in your drains keep reading as we will try to answer the most frequently asked question around this subject.

How did Rats get into My Drain?

Sewer systems provide a network for rats to move around in. Residential sewer pipes connect to the main sewer systems, and are simple paths for rats to follow and investigate. The rat’s sharp claws render them excellent climbers. They are also very adept swimmers, using their hind legs as paddles, their front feet to steer, and their tail as a rudder.

Rats have off the chart stamina and are able to tread water solidly for 3 days!

If a rat can fit its head through a gap, the rest of its body can follow. When attempting to squeeze through very small spaces, the pressure causes the ribs to give way as the ribs are hinged at the spine.

All of these factors may enable a rat to gain entry to your home via your drainage system, e.g., through damaged, or incorrectly installed pipes, and by negotiating the maze-like u-bend in your toilet.

How can I Prevent Rats from Entering My House via My Drainage System?

Ensure your drainage system is installed correctly, any disused pipes are sealed off, and that any damaged pipes are quickly and properly fixed or replaced.

Additional preventative measures can be put in place, such as barriers, traps, and valves. Covers and grating can be useful, to afford passage of waste, but restrict the access of rats.

There are two main reasons rats will enter your home: food and shelter. Unlike a lot of animals, rats need to consume food and water daily therefore, ensure any food waste is kept in sealed bins and dry foods are stored in sealed containers.

Can I deal with My Rat Infestation Myself?

It is not a good idea to undertake DIY rat control, especially as rats can carry multiple diseases which can spread to humans. Such diseases include, Leptospirosis, also known as Weil’s disease, Salmonella, Listeria, Toxoplasma gondii and Hantavirus.

Female rats can become pregnant very quickly after giving birth, and newborns are able to breed from around 5 weeks; therefore, rat infestations can develop quickly. The BPCA estimate that a pair of brown rats could produce 200 babies and 2,000 descendants in one year alone, therefore, Avon Pest Control recommends calling a professional pest control company promptly to take care of your pest problem for you.

If rats are living in your drains and entering your property via your drainage system, act as quickly as a rat up a drainpipe and call Avon Pest Control today! Contact us on 01926 632 929 or 01789 293 463 or click here to visit or website got more information. Avon Pest Control will give you professional, expert advice on how best to resolve your pest issue.

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