Rats on the Rise: 2 Missouri Cities Among Top for Infestations

Not a list any city wants to be on, but for Missouri, there are two cities on the list for having rat infestations. The bad news it's getting worse each year.

St. Louis and Kansas City both rank within the top 50 of having a rat problem, and I'm not talking politics. Terminix released a new ranking for 2024 and for Kansas City (30) and St. Louis (37) is not great news.

The growing problem stems from food waste access, garbage left in alleys and streets, and plenty of places for these little pests to call home.

According to Terminix, there are signs to look for like small droppings, holes in food packaging, chewed wires, and nesting among others. Now, for us here in the "country" we see some of these gius all the time. Mostly when they are looking for shelter and food for the winter, but I wouldn't call it an infestation just a nuisance for homeowners.

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Prevention for Rats and Mice

There are ways to protect your family and home for these little guys. Seal any cracks and openings you find including around doors and windows, store food in containers, keep your space as clean as you can, and organize and clutter areas in your home.

We've all seen the video of the rat and the giant slice of pizza taken in a NYC subway.

I've been lucky not to see that big of a rat anywhere here in the immediate area, but don't be surprised when you visit Kansas City & St. Louyis you will find a rat hauling off some BBQ.