Are Mice Dangerous?

If you see a rat or mouse scuttling near your home, you might not think much—after all, these pests are pretty small and seem pretty harmless. But, like any rodent, they can pose serious risks to your property and health. From spreading diseases to hurting pets, there are a number of ways that rats and mice can be harmful to have around.

Rodent Health Risks

Rats and mice are notorious for spreading a range of serious diseases that pose significant health risks to humans. These rodents are known carriers of illnesses such as:

• Rat-bite fever, which can cause fever, rash, and joint pain 
• Salmonellosis, leading to gastrointestinal distress like diarrhea and vomiting
• Hantavirus, which can result in severe respiratory illness

The risk of infection is heightened not only through direct contact with these rodents but also through indirect exposure. Contaminated food, surfaces, and even air can harbor pathogens from rodent droppings, urine, and saliva. Effective rodent control and maintaining good hygiene practices are crucial in mitigating these health risks.

Property Damage

Rats and mice are equipped with powerful, sharp teeth that enable them to gnaw through a variety of materials. This ability can lead to significant damage in your home or business, including:

• Electrical Wiring: Rodents can chew through wires, potentially causing short circuits and increasing the risk of electrical fires.
• Building Insulation: Damage to insulation can reduce energy efficiency and lead to costly replacements.
• Structural Components: Rodents may also chew on wooden beams and other structural elements, compromising the integrity of your property.

Pet Safety

Our cherished pets are also vulnerable to the dangers posed by rodents. When pets come into contact with or consume rodents, they risk ingesting harmful parasites and diseases carried by these animals. The potential health issues for pets include:

• Parasites: Rodents can transmit parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms, which can lead to discomfort and health complications for your pets.
• Diseases: Pets may contract diseases such as leptospirosis or toxoplasmosis, resulting in symptoms ranging from digestive upset to severe flu-like illness.

These health issues can require prompt veterinary attention and potentially involve significant medical treatment. 

Do Rats or Mice Bite?

Indeed, rats and mice can and do bite, particularly when they feel cornered or threatened. While many rodent bites may seem minor, they can result in more serious injuries and complications. Rodent bites are not only painful but also pose a risk of disease transmission and secondary infection. If you have recently been bitten by a rodent, seek immediate medical care. 

We Handle Rodent Problems For You

Rodents pose serious risks, from damaging your home to harming your pets or your health. At Ja-Roy, we recognize the serious consequences of rodent infestations. With over [years] of dedicated service to the Louisiana area, our team of skilled pest control professionals is equipped to handle even the most challenging rodent issues. We don’t just address the immediate problem; our thorough approach includes effective removal and proactive measures to prevent future infestations. 

Give us a call today to get started.