Do I Have Rats or Mice?

The last thing you want to find in your home or business are rats and mice. Rodents can cause many issues – from property damage to spreading diseases – but it’s important to know exactly what kind of rodent you’re dealing with, so you can understand the dangers and next steps to take. So, if you’ve been asking yourself, “Do I have rats or mice?”, read on.

The rodent control specialists at Ja-Roy have extensive experience with rats and mice, and in this article, we’ll share some insight on how to tell the difference between the two.

What are the Main Differences Between Rats and Mice?

Rats and mice often get confused for one another, but they’re actually easier to tell apart than you might think. Here are the first details to consider when determining which type of rodent you’re dealing with.

• Size: Most rats are much larger than mice. Their bodies can measure approximately 6” – 9” long, not counting tails. Mice typically range from 2” – 5” long.
• Proportions: Mice have larger ears and longer tails relative to their bodies. Rats have smaller, thicker ears and larger feet, giving them a more robust appearance.
• Reproduction: Mice reproduce extremely quickly – up to ten litters per year with 10 to 15 pups each. Rats reproduce less frequently, with about three to six litters per year, with about 10 pups per litter.
• Diet: Mice primarily feed on grains, seeds, and fruits. Rats will eat a wide range of food, including grains, seeds, fruits, meats, and even refuse found in garbage.

Mouse and Rat Common Traits

Both rats and mice share some characteristics that can make them difficult to tell apart. Here are a few similarities:

• Continuous Growth of Incisor Teeth: Rat and mouse incisor teeth never cease growing. To keep the length of their teeth under control, they must continuously gnaw, wearing down the teeth and causing noticeable damage to your property.
• Seeking Shelter in Cold Weather: When it’s cold out, rodents want to stay warm. This often leads to crossing over into human spaces like basements, attics, and garages. That’s why rodent infestations seem more common in the winter.
• Nocturnal Schedule: Rats and mice are primarily active at night. This makes them tough to spot. It’s also why you might hear mysterious sounds and disturbances after dark.

What’s the Difference Between Rat and Mouse Droppings?

If you don’t see the actual rodents, the next best way to tell the difference between rats and mice might be their droppings. Yes, really. Rats and mice have distinctively different types. 

• Rat droppings are large, usually about 10 – 20 mm long, and often found in areas where they spend time. Droppings are spindle-shaped with blunt ends, which distinguishes them from other pests. 
• Mouse droppings are much smaller, measuring just 1 – 2 mm long. They tend to be rod-shaped and pointed at the ends. Unlike rats, mice do not have specific spots for defecation. Instead, they scatter their droppings randomly as they move. 

If rodent droppings are found, it’s important to clean the area thoroughly. Rodent urine and feces can harbor dangerous bacteria and diseases.

Professional Mouse and Rat Extermination Services

Rats and mice pose significant health risks and can cause property damage through gnawing and nesting. If you notice signs of rodents, professional rodent control is crucial – and the sooner, the better.

With 50 years of experience in Louisiana, our state-certified rodent exterminators can tackle both rat and mouse problems quickly and effectively. Call us today for a free estimate!