Toronto Takes the Crown as Canada’s “Rat” Haven 2025
Surprisingly, this isn’t the first time we’ve held this title. In fact, our city was recognized as the favourite destination for rats in 2024 as well.
According to a leading Canadian pest control company, which published its annual nationwide report today, Toronto has once again been named the “Rattiest City.” This is not your typical list of the “Who’s Who” of the city; it doesn’t showcase how many millionaires, tech giants, or celebrities reside here. Instead, it ranks cities based on the number of residential and commercial rodent treatments conducted over the year.
For 2025, Toronto was the clear winner, securing this dubious honour for the second consecutive year!
While Toronto took the lead, cities like Mississauga and Ottawa weren’t far behind, rounding out the top ten rattiest towns in Canada.
The report suggested that it’s not surprising to see Toronto and its sister-cities so high on the list. There exists a “symbiotic relationship between rats and large human populations.” The explanation? Rats thrive on the food provided by humans. Therefore, the larger the human population, the more rats there are.
The report also indicated a rise in the rat population this year, but did not provide specific reasons. However, it hinted at a possible link between milder winters and increased rodent numbers.
In light of the growing rat population, the pest control company recommended several measures for Torontonians to consider, including:
– Proper Waste Management: Ensure trash bins have tight-fitting lids and that collection schedules are regular to prevent rats from finding food sources.
– Family Clean-Up Initiatives: Organize monthly or quarterly clean-up events to reduce clutter and prevent rats from nesting.
– Environmental Changes: Take steps to minimize conditions that attract rats, such as reducing food sources and providing shelter.
– Regular Inspections: Conduct routine inspections and pest control measures to address potential rat infestations promptly.
And now, here are the Top 10 “Rattiest” Cities in Canada for 2025:
1. Toronto
2. Victoria
3. Vancouver
4. Burnaby
5. Richmond
6. Mississauga
7. Kelowna
8. Ottawa
9. Scarborough
10. Moncton