Huge spike in rats in Irish houses with two counties plagued in particular

There has been a huge spike in callouts for rats in Irish homes with two counties in particular plagued by the pesky rodents.

Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, has reported significant increases in rat callouts in Cork and Dublin for September 2024 compared to September last year. Cork experienced a 100% increase, while Dublin saw a 41% rise in reports of rat infestations during the same period.

Nationally, Rentokil recorded a 2.6% increase in rat-related callouts across Ireland in September 2024 compared to September 2023. The company is urging homeowners and businesses to remain vigilant and take preventative measures against the growing threat posed by rats.

Rats present a significant threat to residential and commercial properties, being widely acknowledged as the country’s primary pest concern. Rentokil emphasises the importance of implementing rodent-proofing solutions to prevent these creatures from infiltrating premises, including Rentokil’s Flexi Armour, a robust method utilising durable materials like Kevlar and knitted steel mesh to create impenetrable barriers against rats.

READ NEXT: 'Damaging' storm bears down on Ireland and could be named amid warnings

Colm Moore, Area Technical Manager for Rentokil, said: “Rentokil is encouraging home and business owners to be mindful of the presence of rats in their premises after a 2.6% increase in rat callouts nationwide was observed. Both homeowners and businesses should remain vigilant against the growing threat of rats.

Implementing effective rodent-proofing solutions like Rentokil’s Flexi Armour is crucial in safeguarding properties against these persistent pests. With rats seeking refuge during the colder months, businesses especially need to fortify their defences to prevent structural damage and reputational harm. Members of the public can find out more about signs of rat infestations and how to discourage their presence by visiting the Rentokil website.”

Rats are the top pest threat that premises and business owners need to be aware of as they can cause significant damage to buildings and assets. Rats spend extended periods every day grinding down their teeth on surrounding objects, and as a result, they can chew through utility lines, electrical wires, and other key infrastructure. Signs of rat activity to be aware of t include droppings, scratching noises, and footprints.