The persistent challenge of rats in Singapore is a well-documented issue. According to the National Environment Agency’s (NEA) latest surveillance efforts, an average of 2,700 rat burrows were detected in public areas in the first half of 2024 alone¹. 

This data underscores the critical importance of early detection of a rat infestation in both homes and businesses. As such, it’s important to take prompt action and effective rat control measures to protect your property and health. 

To know if you have a rat infestation on your property, it’s also crucial to identify the common signs.

1. Rat Droppings 

The most obvious indicator of a rodent infestation is the discovery of their droppings. These small, dark fecal pellets are typically found scattered along walls, in cupboards, under sinks, or within storage areas. Typically, fresh rat poop is soft and dark, while older rat droppings become hard and grey. 

When getting rid of the droppings, it's vital to handle them with extreme caution and with enough protection, as they can carry numerous rodent-borne pathogens that pose a serious health hazard. Also, note that the presence of droppings confirms a rat is actively using the area, making it a critical sign to act upon.

2. Unusual Sounds in Walls and Ceilings 

While rats are masters of hiding, they are far from silent. If you listen closely, especially at night when they are most active, you may hear unusual scratching, scurrying, or gnawing noises. 

These sounds coming from within walls, above ceilings, or under floorboards are a clear indication of movement and nesting within your home's structure. The gnawing sounds, in particular, can be an alarming sign of a rat chewing on wood, pipes, or wiring to create a pathway or to keep its constantly growing teeth trimmed.

3. Damage and Pathways

A rat infestation leaves behind a trail of destructive visual evidence, and one of the most common indicators is the presence of gnaw marks on wires, pipes, food packaging, and wooden structures. Rats have to constantly gnaw to wear down their incisors, making this a tell-tale sign. 

Additionally, look for greasy rub marks or smears along skirting boards and walls, which are created by the oils in their fur as they travel the same pathways repeatedly. You may also find footprints and tail drags in dusty areas, or discover nesting materials like shredded paper or fabric in hidden corners.

4. The Distinctive Odour 

A persistent and unusual odour can be a powerful indicator of a significant rat infestation. This musty, stale, or ammonia-like smell often becomes more pronounced in enclosed spaces like pantries, attics, or behind cabinets where a large number of rats may be nesting or a deceased rat may be decomposing. 

This unpleasant odour may also be a result of their urine and droppings accumulating over time. Therefore, if you notice a lingering, unexplained smell, it’s a strong sign that the rat infestation is well-established and requires immediate rat control.

Address Rat Infestation with Sing Kong Environmental's Smart Rat Trapper 

Once a rat infestation is suspected, swift, effective, and hygienic rat control is essential to prevent escalation and mitigate health risks. While traditional methods like sticky traps or snap traps may be a first instinct, they are often messy, unhygienic, and less efficient for the continuous monitoring required to confirm and manage an infestation.

This is why Sing Kong Environmental’s Smart Rat Trapper stands out as an advanced, hygienic, and user-friendly solution designed to manage detected infestations effectively.

When you choose the Smart Rat Trapper, you can access superior features such as:

• Intelligent Sensing 24/7 Operation: Its built-in sensors provide continuous monitoring and precise rodent detection, ensuring that any new rat presence is promptly addressed. This minimises false triggers and wasted efforts once signs of infestation are spotted.
• Hygienic and Odourless Disposal: The contained capture system with antibacterial coating ensures hygienic disposal. This design also prevents unpleasant odours and promotes cleanliness without requiring direct contact, a critical feature when dealing with active infestations.
• Chemical-Free and Safe: It uses non-toxic natural bait, making it safe for homes, pets, and the environment, which can be crucial when dealing with an active rat infestation in residential or commercial settings.
• User-Friendly Design: The easy-to-use mechanism with intelligent electronic counting helps you track captures, making it simple for anyone to manage and confirm a rat problem.
• Flexible Placement and Durability: Its suitability for both indoor and outdoor environments offers versatility for various settings where rat infestation signs might appear, while its durable design ensures a long-lasting solution.

For a modern, ethical, and effective solution to your rat problems, explore Sing Kong Environmental's smart rodent trap today and restore peace of mind to your home or business.

References

1 – The Straits Times, September 2024