A rat is more than a simple nuisance. It has the capability to harm humans through both direct and indirect means. These rodents carry a large variety of diseases that include leptospirosis, lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCMV), hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, and salmonellosis. 
Diseases that are indirectly transmitted to humans by rats through the means of fleas, mites, and ticks include Colorado tick fever, the plague, and cutaneous leishmaniasis. If you suspect that you have a rat in the home, it is imperative that you continue reading to learn about the signs that indicates your suspicions are accurate.
If it is confirmed that a rat has invaded your living space, it is crucial to your health and safety to ensure the immediate removal of the rodent.
Start with an Inspection
The first step to determining if a rat is in your home is to conduct a thorough inspection of the home. You will need to check in and around appliances, in your cabinets, the cupboards, closets, around plumbing fixtures, and other areas that are dark, secluded, around a source of moisture, or near an area where outdoor pests may enter into your home.
You should use a flashlight so that you are able to see well in dark, secluded areas and wear safety gloves to protect your hands and wrists while searching these areas throughout your home.
Sign #1: Rat Droppings
The first indicator of a rat presence is observing rat droppings, which is the fecal matter the rodent leaves behind as it travels from one area to the next. In most instances, the droppings that rats leave behind are about a half inch or longer in size.
Old droppings will be very hard and quite crumbly and new droppings will be putty-like and have a shine to them. If there are a large amount of feces present, it could indicate a massive infestation. Different sizes could indicate the presence of both adult and juvenile rats.
Sign #2: Strong Musky Smell
If you notice a strong musky smell, this indicates that rat urine is present within the home. This may not be too noticeable on small infestations but it is extremely noticeable in large infestations.
Sign #3: Holes
Rats have a tendency to gnaw. As a result, they create holes. These holes can measure as small as the size of a quarter. The edges are often rough and torn. You may also see an oily texture near these holes.
Sign #4: Night Noise
Rats are considered to be nocturnal. They are known to run through basements, attics, walls, and along floors during the nighttime hours. You may hear scratches, thumps, and similar sounds if you have a rat in your house.
Sign #5: Behavior of Your Pets
Your pets are likely to pick up on the presence of a rat before you do. If you notice unusual behaviors – such as sniffing, barking, and pawing at certain areas – you probably have a rat. This is especially true if it occurs underneath or near appliances and furniture pieces that sit low to the ground.
Eliminate a Rat Infestation Now
Rats pose many health dangers to you and your loved ones. They also cause an immense amount of damage to the home.
We here at Palmetto Wildlife offer rodent removal in South and North Carolina. If you have noticed the signs of a rat in your house, you should contact us immediately by calling: 803-543-3099