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Rat poison that contains an anticoagulant like warfarin can cause bleeding, chills, confusion, extreme fatigue, headache, convulsions, lightheadedness, and seizures. Anticoagulants prevent your blood from forming clots, which can result in uncontrolled bleeding both internally and externally. Other types of rat poison that aren't anticoagulants attack your liver, kidneys, and digestive system. They can suppress your breathing and heart rate, causing low blood oxygen and poor circulation. Burning in your throat and gastric discomfort are common symptoms.

According to the Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management, no frightening devices are proven effective for squirrel control. This is likely because the squirrels quickly become habituated to the noises. However, strobe lights show some promise, so motion-activated lighting could be an option worth considering as part of your integrated pest management strategy.

It can be difficult to know what type of animal is in your attic until you see it. But several clues can help you narrow down the suspects:

• Sounds: Smaller animals like rats and mice make scurrying and tapping/gnawing sounds. Larger animals like raccoons and opossums make louder clambering noises. Also, note when animals are noisy: Squirrels are active during the day, while rats are busiest at night.

• Droppings: Rats and mice leave small, rice-shaped droppings (the rat’s version is significantly larger). Bigger droppings belong to larger critters like raccoons. As long as you’re not squeamish, an image search can help you identify what you’re seeing in your attic.

When in doubt, take photos of damage or other evidence and show them to an experienced pest control pro.

Yes, filling gaps can help with pest problems in your home. Sealing baseboard gaps reduces small-insect entry points into your home. Even tiny spaces provide pathways for pests, so addressing all gaps throughout your home creates a more effective barrier than spot treatments in individual rooms.