4 common species of rats can be found in Singapore. They are:

	Norway rats or Sewer rats (Rattus Norvegicus)
	Roof rats (Rattus Diardii)
	Little Mouse rats(Rattus Exulans)
	House Mouse (Mus Musculus)

Rats feed on nearly any kind of food, including ours. They prefer fresh food. When rats feed on our food, they contaminate it with their urine and faeces. In this way, diseases such as leptospirosis is transmitted.

Rats cannot see well, but they make up by having a keen sense of smell, taste and hearing. They are extremely sensitive to sudden noises. They have well developed, sensitive whiskers. They prefer to run along walls or between things where the whiskers can guide them.

Rats have a habit of gnawing, to keep their front teeth (incisors) from growing too long. This gnawing habit damages many household items, machinery parts, wires and cables.

Rats hide in walls, furnitures, drains, garbage dumps and areas where food and shelter can be found nearby.

Controlling Rats

Good housekeeping and sanitation can control the appearance of rats.

	Food should be stored out of reach of rats, preferably in strong containers. Rats can gnaw through plastic containers.
	Clear waste food or unwanted food by throwing them into garbage bag and tied. Bags should be placed in bins with cover as rats can easily eat the food by gnawing through the garbage bag if its left on the ground instead.
	Block and points where rats can enter your house from with wire mesh. Wire mesh can also be placed around pipes to prevent rats from climbing up or down into houses.
	Get professional help if you suspect your house has rats infestation.