What Do Norway Rat Droppings Look Like?
Norway rats, also known as brown or house rats, are the most common type of rat in the United States. Finding Norway rat feces in the home is a sign of infestation. Usually located near rubbish piles, corners, attics, or other nesting places, the pests’ droppings are about three-fourths of an inch long with blunt, rounded ends. Their feces shouldn’t be confused with those of roof rats, which are smaller with pointed tips.
Dangers Associated with Norway Rat Feces
Rats carry many diseases, most of which can be transmitted through accidental contact with their droppings as well as urine and saliva. These include typhus, leptospirosis, and salmonellosis. While not as common with Norway rats, rodents can also spread plague and Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome. Because of these risks, people must take care when in the presence of Norway rat poop.
Dealing with Rodent Waste
If there is any indication of Norway rat droppings in the home, residents must be extremely careful. While attempting to clean it up is not advised for untrained persons, if necessary, there are some safety measures to keep in mind:
- Wear rubber, latex, or vinyl gloves, and use other protective gear to avoid direct contact with the waste.
- Carefully dispose of any potentially infected material and use plenty of disinfectant.
- Never sweep or vacuum any feces, as this can stir up infected dust particles.
Due to the potential health risks involved in the clean-up and removal process, it’s best to contact the experts at Critter Control for assistance with Norway rat droppings.