I believe in treating all creatures with respect. My mission is to ensure everyone understands how to protect their home from rodents without using cruel methods.
We know that rats eat most things (including dog poop), carry several diseases, and occasionally live in sewer systems.
They are already pretty disgusting (and dangerous too).
Can they possibly be any worse? It depends on the answer to the following question: Do rats eat human poop? Let’s take a look at answering that question right now!
We know that the answer to the question ‘do rats eat human poop’ is yes, but you have to understand that the rat needs to access the human poop to be able to eat it.
As you may already know, rats can live in the sewage system in suburban areas. Not only does that mean they spend their time wading through human waste, but it also means they can eat it too.
It may also frighten you into learning that rats can climb up through the sewage system and your toilet! Check this out:
If a rat gets into your home using this method, it will likely be covered in human poop and spread any bacteria around your home as it searches for a place to set up a nest!
Rats are known to carry certain diseases, and now you have to consider all the bacteria around your home too!
What is it About Human Poop That Rats Like?
To understand how to answer this, we first need to understand exactly what is in human poop.
Water (around 75% of the poop) – This offers liquid refreshment to the rat.
Undigested food – This offers something for the rat to eat.
Fats – Something for the rat to eat.
Protein – Something else for the rat to eat!
The rest of the human poop comprises the dead bacteria used to digest the food.
When you consider how human poop is broken down, you understand why a rat will eat it. If a rat is desperate, it can get nutrition from human poop, which is the most important thing.
Does That Mean a Rat Will Go Out Looking For Human Poop To Eat?
No, rats will not go out looking for human poop to eat.
Although rats can hunt very well, they get most of their food from stumbling upon things to eat, such as human poop.
They prefer to eat things they usually find in the wild. Rats prefer to eat nuts, seeds, meat, and fruit. If you want to catch a rat, I wouldn’t advise using human poop as bait! There are plenty of other rat bait options you should consider using first.
What specific diseases can rats transmit to humans through contact with human feces?
Rats can transmit several diseases to humans through contact with human feces, including Hantavirus, Leptospirosis, and Salmonellosis. These diseases are spread through the urine and feces of infected rats, which can contaminate food sources, water, and living spaces.
How can one effectively clean and disinfect areas where rats have been present to minimize health risks?
To effectively clean and disinfect areas where rats have been present, use a solution of bleach and water (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) to sanitize surfaces. Wear gloves and a mask to prevent direct contact with contaminated materials. It’s crucial to ensure proper ventilation during the cleaning process to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
What preventive measures can be taken to secure sewer systems against rat invasions?
Securing sewer systems against rat invasions involves installing rat guards on drainage pipes and ensuring that all sewer lids are properly sealed and undamaged. Regular inspections and maintenance of sewer systems can prevent rats from finding entry points into homes. Additionally, reducing food waste and securing garbage bins can lessen the attraction for rats to the area.
Conclusion
Do rats eat human poop? Yes, they do! It is gross, I know, but it is a genuine answer!
Is it something they would consider a delicacy? Absolutely not.
I mentioned above that rats usually feed on things they stumble upon as they scurry around. It is improbable that a rat will feast on human poop in the wild. There is much more chance of this happening in bigger cities where they will live in the sewer system. This is where they will have more chance of eating human poop. Especially as there aren’t many more options to eat within a sewage system!
In the wild, rats are much more likely to eat nuts, seeds, meat, and fruits.
I’m an expert in do-it-yourself rodent control. For more than 20 years, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people live harmoniously alongside these critters by sharing rodent control solutions that are effective and kind.
I believe in treating all creatures with respect. My mission is to ensure everyone understands how to protect their home from rodents without using cruel methods.
