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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Christa O’Haver profile picture
Christa O’Haver
23 October 2026
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Critter control has amazing quality service, timely responses and great staff!! I’m so pleased with our choice to have critter control service our home! Thank you!
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Lee Ann Chinn
23 October 2026
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Scott was able to trap the two animals I had at my place…a raccoon and a wood chuck under my deck. Real glad I called u instead of trying to do something myself!!!!
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Kyle Carney
23 October 2026
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I use Critter Control now for a couple of years and the service has been exceptional. Jarod Is our service technician and he is top-notch I recommend Critter Control highly!
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Becky Tice
23 October 2026
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We live in the country and Critter Control confirmed that we had some rats burrowing underneath our landscaping near our pool. I was mortified. Critter Control set up bait boxes and they took care of the problem! They do a great job of checking the boxes and replacing the bait, and they always inform us as to when they will be arriving.
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T A
23 October 2026
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They removed a sick squirrel quickly and efficiently.
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vee kay
23 October 2026
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I wish to compliment Jared and Drew in doing an excellent job in removing bats from our attic. Both were very professional, competitent and efficient. It is a great relief to have the issue resolved.
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John Hubbard
23 October 2026
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It’s been a few months since they set up a one way gate to let the attic visitors out. When the unwanted guests left, Critter Control repaired repaired the wind damaged area that allowed the entry. Now they service the traps regularly. It’s great.
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Jeff sink
22 October 2026
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Critter Control had been great to help us with our recent mouse issue. We no longer see traces inside the house of mice.
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Maryhmuh
22 October 2026
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Jacquelyn Rootes.Friendly, professional and thorough.
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Charlene Skidmore
22 October 2026
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The team was great.
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