When it comes to household pests, few are as unsettling as rodents. Unfortunately, rats and mice are not just the stuff of big-city problems. Here in Lexington, KY, these unwanted guests are surprisingly common and can cause significant issues for homeowners and businesses alike. From chewed wires to contaminated food, rodents are far more than a nuisance—they’re a threat to your home, health, and peace of mind.

So, why are rats and mice such a persistent problem in Lexington, and what can you do about them? Let’s break it down.

Why Lexington Struggles With Rats and Mice

Lexington’s climate and landscape make it an attractive place for rodents. The combination of warm summers, cool winters, and ample food sources create the perfect conditions for rats and mice to thrive. Urban and suburban areas provide plenty of hiding places, such as sewers, basements, attics, and crawl spaces.

Additionally, Lexington’s mix of older homes and new construction projects often displaces rodents, pushing them to seek new shelter inside residential neighborhoods. Once they find food, water, and warmth, they can quickly establish a population.

Signs You Have a Rodent Problem

Rodents are skilled at staying out of sight, but they always leave behind clues. If you notice any of these warning signs, it may be time to call X-iT Pest & Wildlife for help:

• Droppings: Small, dark pellets around cupboards, pantries, or baseboards.
• Gnaw marks: Chewed wires, furniture, or food packaging.
• Noises at night: Scratching or scurrying in walls, ceilings, or attics.
• Nests: Shredded paper, fabric, or insulation tucked away in hidden areas.
• Grease marks: Oily streaks along walls where rodents travel.

If left unchecked, rats and mice can multiply rapidly, turning a small problem into a serious infestation.

Health Risks of Rats and Mice

Rodents are more than just destructive—they’re dangerous. Rats and mice carry a variety of diseases that can spread to humans, including salmonella, hantavirus, and leptospirosis. Their droppings and urine contaminate food surfaces, and their constant gnawing can damage insulation and electrical wiring, increasing the risk of house fires.

For families with children or pets, the risks are even higher, making swift action critical.

Why DIY Solutions Rarely Work

Many homeowners try to handle rodent problems themselves with traps or store-bought poisons. While these may catch a few rodents, they rarely solve the root of the issue. Rodents are intelligent, reproduce quickly, and often nest in hard-to-reach areas. Missing just one entry point or food source can lead to an infestation coming right back.

This is why professional help from X-iT Pest & Wildlife is essential. Their team knows where to look, how to safely remove rodents, and how to keep them from returning.

How Professionals Handle Rodent Problems

When you call a professional for rodent control, the process goes far beyond setting traps. A company like X-iT Pest & Wildlife uses a comprehensive approach that includes:

• Inspection: Locating nests, entry points, and food sources.
• Identification: Determining whether you’re dealing with mice, roof rats, or Norway rats.
• Treatment: Using targeted traps, bait systems, and safe removal techniques.
• Exclusion: Sealing gaps, cracks, and vents to prevent re-entry.
• Prevention advice: Helping you reduce attractants such as clutter, food waste, or standing water.

This full-service approach ensures that rats and mice are eliminated and kept out for good.

Preventing Rodents in Your Lexington Home

While professional treatment is the most reliable way to stop rodents, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of attracting them:

• Store food in airtight containers.
• Take out trash regularly and keep bins sealed.
• Keep attics, basements, and crawl spaces clean and dry.
• Seal cracks and holes around doors, windows, and foundations.
• Trim shrubs and trees away from your home to limit hiding spots.

These habits, paired with professional support, create a strong defense against future infestations.

Protect Your Peace of Mind

So, are rats and mice a common problem in Lexington, KY? The answer is yes. With the city’s climate, urban layout, and abundant food sources, rodents are a year-round challenge for many homeowners.

The good news is that you don’t have to face this issue alone. With the expertise of X-iT Pest & Wildlife, you can identify, eliminate, and prevent rodent infestations effectively and safely. If you suspect you have a rodent problem, don’t wait—quick action can protect your home, your health, and your peace of mind.