Top 5 Signs You Have a Rodent Problem in Your Home

Think you might have rodents in your home?

This post covers the top five warning signs—including droppings, noises, chew marks, and more—so you can act fast before an infestation gets out of control. Learn how to spot rodent activity early and what steps to take to protect your home and family.Top 5 Signs You Have a Rodent Problem in Your Home

Rodents: A Silent (and Costly) Threat

Rodents like rats and mice may be small, but they can cause major problems for homeowners. From chewing through wires and insulation to contaminating food and spreading disease, rodents are more than just a nuisance—they’re a health and safety hazard. The worst part? They’re experts at staying hidden.

By the time you see one, chances are there are more hiding in your walls, attic, or basement. Knowing the early signs of an infestation can help you act fast and avoid costly damage.

1. Droppings in Cabinets, Pantries, or Along Baseboards

One of the clearest signs of rodent activity is the presence of droppings. Mouse droppings are small, dark, and pointed on both ends, while rat droppings are larger and more blunt. You’ll often find them in places where food is stored or where rodents travel frequently—under sinks, inside drawers, and along walls.

Tip: Wear gloves when cleaning droppings, and disinfect the area thoroughly to avoid the spread of harmful bacteria.

2. Scratching Noises in the Walls or Ceiling

Rodents are most active at night. If you’re hearing scratching, rustling, or squeaking sounds in your walls, ceiling, or attic—especially after dark—you could have rodents nesting or moving through your home’s structure.

These noises often indicate that rodents are actively building nests, scavenging for food, or traveling between entry points.

3. Chew Marks and Gnawed Items

Rodents have strong teeth that never stop growing. To keep them in check, they gnaw constantly—on everything from wood and cardboard to plastic and electrical wires. If you notice chew marks on baseboards, furniture legs, storage boxes, or even appliance cords, it's a red flag.

Chewed wires aren’t just annoying—they’re also a serious fire hazard.

4. Nesting Materials in Hidden Areas

Mice and rats build nests using shredded paper, fabric, insulation, or anything soft and warm. Check behind appliances, in the attic, and in rarely accessed storage areas for small piles of nesting materials. If you find one, there are likely more nearby.

5. Unusual Pet Behavior

Dogs and cats often sense rodents before humans do. If your pet is staring at the wall, barking at the attic, or pawing at an area where they’ve never shown interest before, it may be due to the scent or sound of rodents.

Don’t ignore their instincts—they could be alerting you to a hidden infestation.

What to Do If You Suspect Rodents

If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Rodents reproduce quickly and a small issue can become a full-blown infestation in weeks. Start by sealing off food sources, decluttering storage areas, and inspecting for entry points.

Then, call a licensed pest control provider like Bliss Pest Services. Our team will inspect your home, identify the source of the problem, and eliminate rodents safely and efficiently.

Schedule a Rodent Inspection Today

Rodents are sneaky, but with quick action and expert help, you can kick them out for good. Contact Bliss Pest Services today for a free quote and find out why we’re Northern Utah’s trusted rodent control specialists.