How to Find a Dead Rat

Homeowners understandably grow annoyed upon finding dead rats in walls, attics, and garages. When rats build nests and take shelter in attics, they sometimes fall into structural voids and become trapped. Residents may hear the pests calling out in distress or scratching. Even worse, they may smell something sour permeating the home. Dead rat removal can prove difficult depending on where the creatures are located. Finding carcasses often involves work best left to professionals such as exploring tight, waste-contaminated areas or removing portions of walls.

Disposal

When disposing of rotting rat carcasses, extreme caution is necessary. At close range, the dead rat smell shocks the senses even if masks or respirators are worn. Even worse, proximity to the pest will put individuals in danger of contracting diseases. Proper removal requires protective gear and disposal away from the home for safety. Dead rats cannot simply be placed in unsealed, outdoor trash cans as this can attract unwanted predators and insect pests.

Issues & Removal

While dead rats cause their own set of problems and issues, live rats soil their surroundings with droppings and eat pantry foods. Salmonellosis, murine typhus, and plague are just a few diseases transferable from rodent to resident through fecal contamination. To prevent the pests from appearing in the first place, be sure to keep kitchens tidy and garbage cans sealed. Plug entry points with steel wool or cement. Due to the health risks and unique demands involved, dead rat removal should only be attempted by the experts at Critter Control.

Learn more about rat removal.

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Lon Barrett profile picture
Lon Barrett
11 September 2026
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Dustin did a great job. I just could not longer afford it on a retirement income. They were the only oneddds I could find that controlled rabbits.
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CR Warner
11 September 2026
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We had such a great experience with Critter Control at every interaction. Many months ago, my friend and I called to get some advice on how to handle a bat in our home. The lady we spoke with took the time to give us free, down to earth, real advice. I remembered the experience so when it came time to batproof our attic, they are who we called. The gentleman that came out to do the quote was thorough and patient in explaining everything. The gentlemen that did the bat proofing were quick, efficient and friendly. A few months later we had them back to clean out and insulate our attic. Very friendly crew, extra helpful, and were respectful to our home and good with our German Shepherd. Just a stellar experience all around. Recommended them to my friend, and I'll recommend them to you!
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Irene Snyder
10 September 2026
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Critter Control was prompt in scheduling the initial visit to assess the problem and detailed in explaining their service. Drew has been prompt in all communications and careful while on the property. It has been reassuring in working with them to resolve the issue.
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Bob Sturgis
10 September 2026
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Cody just came back for his one year checkup as he promised when performing the job in 2025 - consistently outstanding service from him, great communication, always trying to go above/beyond!
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Sandra Goodwin
10 September 2026
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Critter control-Taylor, the owner, is quite knowledgeable about critters. He was friendly and thorough.
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Bruce Morris
10 September 2026
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They were a pleasure to work with I would highly recommend them. Roman is very knowledgeable and made the process smooth. The crew came out and went over and above. They were professional and timely. Everything about the experience was a pleasure and smooth, Thank you!
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J A
10 September 2026
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I have used this company many times for all different things. They always respond as fast as possible. Wasp problem? Bug problem? Call them! The honesty that was shown when things aren’t truly needed shows that if you need pest services, call Critter Control first. You will get honest and thorough services. And you will call them again if you need it. 5 stars.
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k ranuccifrazier
10 September 2026
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I couldn’t be happier with my experience with Critter Control and, especially, with Taylor and his partner. Taylor called the evening before my appointment to confirm and took the time to explain what they would be looking for and what the inspection would involve. He also let me know that I would receive a written estimate when they were finished, which I really appreciated. The next morning, Taylor called before arriving and showed up right within the scheduled window. He introduced himself and his partner, and they were both extremely professional and courteous. They took their time inspecting the yard and ultimately determined that I was dealing with both moles and gophers. Taylor walked me through the treatment options, answered every question I had, and made sure I understood what they were recommending. There was absolutely no pressure, and I really appreciated how straightforward and transparent the entire process was. I had a written estimate in hand within about 10 minutes of them completing the inspection. From the initial phone call to the completion of the inspection, everything was handled professionally and exactly as promised. It’s refreshing to deal with people who communicate well, show up when they say they will, and genuinely take the time to answer your questions. Thank you, Taylor, for making the process so easy. I’m very happy with the experience and would definitely recommend Taylor and Critter Control!
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Diana Onas
10 September 2026
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I had a appointment with Moises today to investigate noises that I had been hearing in my wall. I explained what I had been hearing and for how long, and he said that he was going to look for any potential entry points. He found two areas that were compromised and showed me pictures of the areas, and told me what he thought was the culprit and also explained the plan to make sure that there weren't any other rodents in the wall by putting in a one way door and then after 5 days, they would sanitize the area in the wall and seal up the two areas, so that nothing else could get inside. He was very professional and friendly and explained everything to me that they were going to do to alleviate the situation. I would definitely recommend Moises and Critter Control for any wildlife removal services in the future.
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Jacob Hanson
10 September 2026
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Evan the owner was very helpful! He was very responsive and knowledgeable for our bat issue. Couldn’t be happier!
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