Rats and mice are two dreaded pest problems for homeowners here in Northern Utah. If you’ve had a rodent infestation, you know how frustrating it can be. Both rats and mice share many similarities, but they differ in many ways as well. From deer mice to Norway rats, it’s important to know what type of rodent you are dealing with. The rodent control pros here at Rentokil are sharing their expert information on differentiating between rats and mice. Keep reading to learn whether those are rats or mice infesting your home.

Rats or Mice: Which One is Infesting Your Property?

As rodents, both rats and mice share one common identifying trait: their ever-growing incisor teeth. They also both can carry and spread a number of dangerous diseases, making it more important than ever to know how to identify a rodent problem. Here’s how to differentiate the two:

1. Rats
   • While they differ between species, rats typically have larger bodies that are about 6–9 inches in size.
   • Rats have small, hairy ears and larger feet.
   • Their droppings are much bigger than those of mice at 10–20 mm long.
   • Rats produce 3–6 litters a year with up to 10 pups in each litter.
   • Rats are opportunistic feeders that will eat meats, grains, seeds, and much more.

1. Mice
   • Most mice are only 2–4 inches long.
   • Mice typically have larger ears and tails compared to their body size.
   • The droppings mice leave behind have pointed ends and are just 1–2 mm long.
   • Mice are omnivores but mostly feed on seeds, grains, and fruits.
   • They are more prolific than rats: Mice produce 5–10 litters a year with up to 14 mice in each litter.

What Are The Signs of Rats or Mice in My Home?

Rats and mice exhibit similar behaviors, meaning they both leave the same signs of their activity! Some of the most common signs you have rats or mice in your home include foul odors, odd noises, gnaw marks, chewed up nests, burrows or tunnels, and droppings or urine spots. Besides being a nuisance to get rid of, rats and mice alike are dangerous due to their ability to transmit some of the world’s worst diseases. For this reason alone, it’s always best to enlist the help of a professional rodent control company when dealing with these pests.

What to Do When You Find Mice or Rats

If you think you are dealing with rats or mice, it’s best to call your local rodent control team at Rentokil. We are committed to keeping you and your family safe from the dangers both of these pests can bring into your home year-round. Call us today to learn more!