Rats are very destructive pests that can spread disease, contaminate food, and cause costly structural damage. Rats can be found in all areas of the county. The Vector Control Program provides outdoor rodent inspections, rat control starter kits and instructions on how to properly implement rat control techniques free of charge to all County residents.
Got rats? Watch a quick video on how to keep those unwelcome pests and other critters out of your house.
To request a free rat inspection, call (858) 694-2888 or email firstname.lastname@example.org.
For some people, rats can make good pets. If they are unwanted however, rats can be pests. They pollute food, spread disease, and cause damage by gnawing. Rats are most active at night. If they are seen during the day, there is a good chance there are more around your home. Rats eat all types of food, including human and pet food.
Types of Rats
Rats: Roof rats are the most
common type of rat in San Diego County. They like to climb, rather
then burrow, and they live above ground. They are gray or brown in
Rats: Norway rats are not
commonly found in homes in San Diego County. They prefer to burrow
outside and are bigger than roof rats. They come in a wide range of
Wood Rats: Wood rats build nests out of sticks and debris. They
are not found in homes, but some do nest in outbuildings. They are
gray or brown in color.
Rats carry and spread diseases that can harm humans and other animals:
- Plague: People can be infected with plague from fleas that feed on infected rats, or from being bitten by an infected rat.
- Food poisoning: Eating food that has been polluted with rat urine or droppings can cause food poisoning.
- Rat-bite fever: A bite from an infected rat can cause rat-bite fever.
- Parasites: Some rats can carry tapeworms.
Signs of Rat Activity
The most common signs of a rat infestation in your home are: