8 Weird And Unusual Things That Rats Eat
Rats are notorious for eating nearly anything, but some of their food choices are downright strange. Whether you are concerned about rats in your business or your home, or just curious, here are eight weird things that rats eat, showcasing their adaptable and opportunistic diet.
1. Soap bars
Odd as it sounds, rats eat soap. Although soap doesn’t sound nutritious, it often contains fats, which rats find appealing. The scent of certain soaps can also attract these rodents, leading to gnawed bars in bathrooms or kitchens.
2. Candles
Like soap, candles contain animal fats or vegetable oils that attract rats. They gnaw on candles as an easy source of energy, especially if the candle is scented with food-like fragrances such as vanilla or cinnamon. When rats eat candles, they’re drawn in by both the smell and fat content.
3. Books and paper
Books and papers may not seem like typical food, but rats eat paper products, especially in storage areas. Paper and cardboard have fibres that can provide a minor source of roughage. Often, rats eat these items out of curiosity or boredom, but they also use chewed paper to build their nests.
4. Leather goods
Leather is another strange item that rats eat, often chewing on shoes, belts or even furniture. Since leather comes from animal skin, it’s full of protein, making it an unexpected treat for hungry rats. Not only do they relish leather, but they also gnaw through it quickly with their strong teeth.
5. Plastic items
Plastic might seem inedible, but rats eat plastic items like containers, bags or bottles. Rats chew through plastic mainly to access the food inside. However, they sometimes consume small pieces of plastic, which can be dangerous for them but is often found in their droppings.
6. Pet food
Another odd thing rats eat is pet food. Dog and cat foods are high in protein, fats and other nutrients, making them attractive to rats. Since pet food is often left out overnight, it becomes an easy food source for rats looking for a midnight snack. This is just one more reason you don’t want rats getting indoors.
7. Rubber materials
Rubber might be strange to us as food, yet rats eat items like rubber seals or hoses. They’re primarily attracted to rubber’s chewy texture, which helps them wear down their constantly growing teeth. Rubber in household appliances, such as washing machines, can fall victim to this unusual habit.
8. Concrete and brick
Perhaps the most unusual thing that rats eat—or at least chew—is concrete and brick. Although they don’t consume these materials, they gnaw on concrete and brick to gain entry to buildings. This behaviour can lead to serious structural damage over time.
Call us for rat control if you suspect an infestation in your home or business.