Toronto, Ontario, Nov. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rat incidents are on the rise in Canada's major cities, and new data confirms the increase is real and widespread. A national survey conducted by Abell Pest Control during the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors (CIPHI) conference last month in Kelowna found that 89 per cent of health inspectors have observed an increase in rat activity over the past three years.
The results reflect a growing body of evidence: municipal reports, public complaints, health inspectors' findings and Abell's own data all point to a nearly 15 percent increase in rat activity nationwide over the past three years, driven by breeding cycles, construction failures and abundant urban food sources.
“Rats are highly adaptable and thrive in urban environments,” explained Aaron Sudant, Director of Service and Quality Assurance at Abell Pest Control. “With changing weather, construction activities and easy access to food sources, conditions are ideal for rats to survive and reproduce year-round, making preventative care essential for every community.”
Why the increase?
Construction disruptions and pandemics caused rat populations to shift, pushing them into new areas where they have since established themselves. Warmer winters now extend breeding seasons, and available food sources, trash, compost, bird seed, pet food and commercial waste support larger colonies. Aging infrastructure, foundation gaps and ongoing urban development also contribute to ideal conditions for nesting and entry.
The picture is similar across the country: Brampton residents are reporting daily sightings in previously unaffected areas, Toronto has launched a coordinated rat control initiative, Montreal is coping with a surge in complaints, and Vancouver and Ottawa are linking rising infestations to heavy construction and milder winters.
A growing public health priority
On average, activity has increased by approximately 15% over the past three years, with 60% of health inspectors confirming a steady upward trend in most industries examined.
Abell Pest Control calls for immediate preventative measures to contain the infestation before it spreads further.
- Municipalities should enforce safe waste management policies and require rodent control plans before demolition.
- Property managers should seal anything ¼ inch or larger to keep rats and mice out.
- Residents and business owners can help by removing trash, reducing clutter, and ordering preventive inspections, even when there are no visible signs.
“It is critical to take proactive steps now,” Sudan added. “It protects public health, preserves property values and prevents small problems from becoming costly community problems.”
About Abell Pest Control:
Founded in 1924, Abell Pest Control is a Canadian company that provides reliable pest control services throughout the country. With a long history of protecting clients and their patrons, Abell is committed to providing exceptional service to both homes and businesses across the country, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Committed to innovation, Abell Pest Control offers cutting-edge technological solutions for pest prevention and control, providing the highest standards of service. Abell values partnerships and is committed to delivering value to the industries it serves by maintaining a strong network of alliances to better support its clients. Find out more about Abel by visiting www.abellpestcontrol.com or follow them on social media for pest control tips. Facebook And Instagram.
