Scratching in the ceiling, droppings in a cupboard, a nibbled bag of cereal – most people’s first question is “is it rats or mice?”. The answer matters, because the two need different treatments and proofing.
Look at the droppings
- Mice – small (3–6mm), thin and pointed, like grains of rice, often scattered widely
- Rats – much larger (1–2cm), thicker and blunt-ended, usually in groups
Listen to the noise
Mice make light, quick scratching and scurrying sounds. Rats are heavier – you might hear gnawing, thumping or something being dragged. Both are most active at night. If the noise is loudest in the early morning and late afternoon, it could be squirrels instead.
Check the damage
Mice nibble small, neat holes in packaging and chew paper for nests. Rats leave larger, rougher gnaw marks and can chew through wood, plastic pipes and even soft metal.
Look for other signs
Rats leave greasy smear marks along walls and runs through gardens, and often burrow under sheds and decking. Mice are more likely to be found inside, in kitchen units, behind appliances and in lofts.
Why it matters
Rats often come from drains or outside burrows, so we check drainage and the outside of the building. Mice can get through a gap the width of a pencil, so proofing needs to be much finer. A professional inspection tells you exactly what you’re dealing with and where it’s getting in.
Need help?
We deal with rats and mice across Edinburgh and Fife, usually the same or next day.