At a glance
| Clue | Mouse | Rat |
|---|---|---|
| Body length | 6 to 9 cm, plus a long thin tail | 20 to 27 cm, plus a thick scaly tail |
| Droppings | 3 to 8 mm, thin and pointed, like grains of rice | 12 to 18 mm, capsule-shaped |
| Noises | Light, quick pattering and scratching | Heavier scratching, thumping and gnawing |
| Gnaw marks | Tiny, fine scratches | Larger, rougher marks about 3 to 4 mm wide |
| Gap needed | About 6 mm | About 15 to 20 mm |
| Behaviour | Curious; explores new things quickly | Wary of new objects; slower to take bait |
| Where found | Kitchens, cupboards, behind appliances, floor voids | Gardens, drains, under floors, lofts, bin stores |
Young rat or adult mouse?
A young rat can be mistaken for a mouse. Look at the head and feet: rats have proportionally larger heads, feet and thicker tails. Mice have big ears for their size and a pointed snout.
Why it matters
Mice live in small territories and are curious, so treatment is placed close to where they are active and works fairly quickly. Rats are cautious, travel further and often come from drains or outside, so treatment takes longer and proofing is essential. Your technician will confirm which you have on the first visit.
Questions and answers
Can I have both rats and mice?
Yes, though mice tend to avoid areas with active rats. Both can be present in larger buildings.
Which is worse, rats or mice?
Both damage property and carry disease. Rats cause more structural damage and are harder to control; mice breed faster indoors.
Related pages
This page is general information, last reviewed on 19 October 2026. It is not a substitute for an on-site inspection.