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It can be scary to come across rats or mice, especially considering their large and threatening teeth. While rodents look frightening, they don’t generally exhibit aggressive behavior. They’d much rather run away and hide than attack a person.
Both rats and mice can bite, although it’s uncommon for them to do so unless provoked. Typically, a rat or mouse will only resort to biting if it’s feeling trapped or scared. You’re more likely to get bitten if you attempt to capture the critter or encounter one in the wild. Most rodents avoid humans but may feel threatened or confused in certain situations, leading to bites, so it’s important to understand how to prevent such incidents. Rodent bites can happen for several reasons, usually from defensive or mistaken behavior. This might include:
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Rats and mice often bite when they feel cornered or threatened. If you accidentally trap a rodent in a small space or try to handle it, the animal may react defensively by biting. This is especially true if the rodent has no other means of escape.
Rodents, particularly mice, have poor vision. They may mistake your fingers for food if they’re used to grabbing small objects, especially in environments where they associate humans with feeding.
Though rare, rodents can carry rabies. A rabid rodent may behave erratically and bite without apparent reason. Rabies is dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. Always treat bites from any animal, including rodents, as potentially serious.
During mating or reproductive cycles, rats and mice might exhibit more aggressive behavior due to hormonal changes. This can make them more prone to biting if they feel disturbed.
Rats and mice differ slightly in their biting behavior. Rats are more likely to bite when they feel cornered or threatened, as they tend to be more defensive. Mice bites are less common but can happen when they mistake a person for food or feel unsafe.
In both species, bites are usually a last resort. Rodents are more inclined to flee than fight, but if you’ve encountered one in your home, it’s essential to approach carefully to avoid provoking a bite.
Rodent bites can range from shallow to deeper wounds that may draw blood. But the primary concern isn’t just the bite; it’s the potential risk of contracting diseases. Some deer mice carry Hantavirus, and victims of rat bites could potentially develop rat-bite fever. Symptoms of a rodent bite include mild to severe reactions, depending on the individual’s response and the potential presence of infection.
One of the first symptoms after a rodent bite may be fever and chills, indicating the presence of an infection. You may also develop swollen lymph nodes, a clear sign your body is fighting off a bacterium.
Muscle pain and joint pain can also develop, particularly in the case of rat-bite fever (RBF), which is caused by bacteria from the rodent’s saliva.
Headaches are common after an infected rat or mouse bite. It’s another indicator that your body is battling the effects of an infection.
Some people experience nausea and vomiting after a rodent bite, particularly if they develop rat-bite fever or another infection, such as leptospirosis or Hantavirus.
Redness and swelling are expected at the bite site. You may also notice pus draining from the bite area if the wound becomes infected. This requires medical attention and possibly antibiotics to prevent further complications.
Rodent bites can introduce harmful bacteria or viruses into your body. Below are some common health risks associated with bites from rats and mice.
Rat-bite fever is a bacterial infection caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis or Spirillum minus. Symptoms include fever, joint pain, rash, and muscle aches. Without treatment, it can lead to severe complications.
While less commonly associated with bites, rodents can spread Hantavirus through contact with their saliva or droppings. Symptoms include fever, muscle pain, headaches, and, in severe cases, respiratory issues.
This bacterial infection, caused by exposure to rodent urine, can lead to kidney damage, liver failure, or meningitis if not treated promptly. Symptoms often include fever, muscle pain, and vomiting.
Deer mice and other rodents primarily spread LCMV. It can lead to fever, stiff neck, headaches, and, in severe cases, neurological complications. LCMV poses particular risks for pregnant women and their unborn babies.
Rodents, especially mice, can carry Toxoplasma gondii, transmitted through bites or contact with their droppings. In most cases, this parasite only affects those with weakened immune systems, but it can cause flu-like symptoms or lead to more severe health issues.
If you think you’ve experienced a rodent bite, seek medical attention immediately. Even if the bite seems minor, it could transmit dangerous bacteria or pathogens to your body. Ignoring the bite could lead to health problems within the following days or weeks.
If a rodent bites you, it’s essential to take immediate action to prevent infection. First, thoroughly clean the wound with warm water and soap to remove saliva. After cleaning, apply an antiseptic ointment to help prevent bacterial infection. Keep an eye on the wound for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, pus, or fever. If any symptoms appear or the wound worsens, seek medical attention promptly.
Preventing rodent bites begins with keeping rodents out of your home. Start by sealing any entry points, using steel wool or caulk to block small holes and gaps where rodents might sneak in. Eliminate food sources by keeping food, especially pet food and garbage, sealed and out of reach. Maintaining cleanliness is also key—regularly clean up crumbs and spills that could attract rats or mice. Finally, store firewood away from your house and elevate it, as rodents often nest in wood piles. These simple steps can significantly reduce the chances of encountering rodents and getting bitten.
If you’re dealing with a rodent problem in your Georgia home, professional help can make all the difference. Our rodent identification guides can help you quickly recognize the types of rodents invading your space, and rodent prevention guides provide practical tips to keep them out for good.
If you’re already facing an infestation, our rodent treatment guides outline safe and effective methods for eliminating pests. Our licensed exterminators can safely get rid of the colony and prevent it from coming back. Don’t wait until you or a family member suffers a bite—contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward a safe home.
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