How should I handle dead rats, rat droppings, and nesting areas?
- Use rubber gloves
- Ventilate the affected area the night before cleanup by opening doors and windows
- Spray dead rats, droppings, nests and surrounding areas with a 10% bleach solution (one part bleach and 9 parts water). Allow at least 15 minutes of contact time before removal.
- Clean the affected area with paper towels or a mop. Do not sweep or vacuum. Double bag both the disinfectant-soaked rat and cleanup materials securely in plastic bags and seal. Dispose in city trash containers.
- Before removing gloves, wash in disinfectant, then soap and water. Dispose of gloves with other household waste. Thoroughly wash hands with soap and water.

Show All Answers

1. What are common signs of roof rat activity?
2. What should I do if I see evidence on my property?
3. How should I handle dead rats, rat droppings, and nesting areas?
4. Where have roof rats been found?
5. When do they travel?
6. How do they travel?
7. How do they enter homes?
8. Why attics?
9. What do they eat and drink?
10. How do I seal my home?
11. Do roof rats carry disease?