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Do rats or mice bite?
While rodents possess formidable teeth, incidents of them biting humans are uncommon. Generally, healthy rats and mice are not inclined to display aggression towards humans, often opting to flee rather than engage in confrontation or biting. Key points regarding bites from rats or mice include:
- Rodent bites are infrequent but may occur if the animal feels threatened or if it’s rabid.
- Mice demonstrate a lower propensity to bite compared to rats.
- Rodents can transmit diseases through their saliva when they bite.
- Although few rodent bites result in infections, they often cause pain, redness, and swelling at the site of the bite.
What Happens if a Rat Bites You?
Rat bites usually occur when the rodent feels threatened or trapped. Instances might arise when someone tries to capture a rat or mouse, or encounters one in the wild. Rat bites can vary in severity, ranging from shallow to deep wounds that may draw blood. When rodents bite, there are significant concerns, particularly regarding the risk of contracting diseases. Certain types of rats carry dangerous diseases in their saliva. Although uncommon, victims bitten by deer mice might contract Hantavirus, while rat bites can potentially transmit rat-bite fever.
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Do All Rodents Bite?
While not all rodents exhibit biting behavior, like most pests, rats and mice might resort to biting when under extreme stress. As a general rule, it’s wise not to take chances. Avoid approaching or attempting to handle a nuisance rat or mouse found in your home. Instead, it’s advisable to get assistance from local rodent exterminators. Their expertise can effectively rid your home of rodents without putting yourself at risk of potential bites or harm.
What to Do If You Have a Rodent Bite
If you suspect a rat bite, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention, irrespective of the symptoms present. Common indicators of a mouse or rat bite encompass redness and swelling at the bite site, accompanied by mild pain. In cases of infection, the bite may develop pus. For instances of bacterial infection like rat-bite fever, more severe symptoms might surface within a week post-bite. These symptoms may involve a combination of muscle aches, joint pain, vomiting, fever, rashes, and ulcers.
If you are concerned about symptoms following a suspected rodent bite, consult your doctor right away.