Seeing a rat in your home or business isn’t just unsettling—it’s a sign of a much bigger problem. Rats are not only destructive, but they can also pose serious health risks by spreading diseases and contaminating food sources. Whether you’re a homeowner or running a business, acting quickly is critical.

Here’s what you should do right now if you’ve spotted a rat:

1. Don’t Panic, But Don’t Ignore It

It might be tempting to dismiss a single rat sighting as a fluke, especially if it disappears before you can get a good look. But where there’s one rat, there’s usually more—and they multiply fast. A single pair of rats can produce hundreds of offspring in a single year.

Bottom line: One rat = potential infestation. Take it seriously.