Should You Be More Worried About Rats or Cockroaches?

Some pests invade our homes and make their presence known to an aggravating level, such as houseflies and gnats. Other pests prefer to stay hidden during the daytime and come out at night in search of food and water, such as cockroaches and rats. When it comes to roach and rodent infestations, a question always seems to pop up: Which pest causes the most problems and should concern homeowners the most? Venice Pest Control has some useful information to help you make an informed decision and to take the appropriate measures.

Roaches 101: The Ugly Truth

Cockroaches have survived for millions of years and resist many over-the-counter pest control products. They breed by the hundreds in a short time and live in the recesses behind walls, under cabinets, and inside boxes and personal belongings. Though many roach species exist in the world, the two most common species in the States are:

• American cockroach
• German cockroach

The German cockroach is the smaller of the two and has a brown appearance with a black band along its back. The American cockroach may reach over an inch or two in length and can also fly, which makes for a terrifying sight when it invades your home.

Cockroaches carry bacteria such as salmonella and transmit the illness to people as it scurries over food, countertops, toothbrushes, and other items. If a roach infestation goes ignored, the population can reach almost uncontrollable levels and require professional assistance.

Rodents 101: The Disease Carriers

Rats and mice invade homes whether it's cool or warm outside. They're continuously on the hunt for food and have an incredible sense of smell, which leads these pesky rodents into homes across the area. Field mice and roof rats squeeze through small crevices and build nests inside walls, attic spaces, old dresser drawers, and other out-of-the-way areas.

Once rats invade an interior, they stay there until they're found and eliminated. Otherwise, they continue to breed until their numbers escalate and the rodents expand into your living spaces. Rats carry numerous diseases such as:

• Hantavirus
• Rat-bite fever
• Plague
• Salmonellosis

A mouse trap may catch a rat or two, but it won't eliminate an infestation or stop the rodents from breeding and spreading. It takes professional pest control to stop mice and rats and to keep them outside where they belong.

Professional Pest Control in Venice

Rodents and cockroaches both present a threat to your home and family. Contact Venice Pest Control for a free estimate and a complete inspection. Our trained technicians will thoroughly inspect your home for roaches and rodents and treat each species with the appropriate pest control products. We'll eliminate an infestation and prevent future pests from invading your home.