Irish households warned to 'stay alert' as rat infestations have increased significantly

Irish households have been warned to stay vigilant as a significant increase in rat related infestations has been recorded in 2025.

Rentokil, Ireland’s leading pest control provider, has reported an increase in rat activity nationwide during 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Colder weather drives rodents indoors in search of food, warmth, and shelter.

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The company has recorded a 12% increase in rat-related enquiries for the first nine months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Rats remain one of the most common pest issues affecting Irish properties.

Rentokil notes that overall rodent activity typically rises in the autumn and winter months, as these pests seek refuge inside homes and businesses. The company continues to monitor a seasonal shift in infestations, with increased reports in both residential and commercial settings as temperatures drop.

Colm Moore, Regional Technical Manager for Rentokil, said:

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“As we move into the colder months, it is common to see increased rat and general rodent activity as they migrate indoors seeking warmth and shelter. We are reminding homeowners and businesses to stay alert for signs of infestation, including droppings, scratching noises in walls or ceilings, footprints, and gnaw marks, and to act quickly to prevent a larger problem from developing.

“Rats remain one of the most persistent pest challenges we deal with in Ireland. Identifying and addressing entry points early, along with regular monitoring, is key to keeping properties protected.”

Rats and mice both pose serious risks to property and health. They can cause structural damage by gnawing through cables, insulation, and pipework, while also spreading diseases through droppings and urine.

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Rentokil continues to offer a range of innovative and environmentally responsible pest management solutions to help customers maintain safe and pest-free environments.

To help address rodent concerns, Rentokil’s PestConnect remains the company’s leading early warning digital solution for pest control. Dual AutoGate Connect, part of Rentokil’s PestConnect system, is a device that allows Rentokil to strategically bait with second generation anticoagulants. This ensures the effective early monitoring and control of rats whilst reducing the risk to non-target species.