The answer to 'why is my rodent odor' is that the unpleasant smell is likely caused by a rodent infestation in your home. Rodents like mice and rats can leave behind urine, feces, and decomposing bodies that create a strong, musky odor. This odor is often the first sign that you have a rodent problem.
Common causes of rodent odor include nesting materials, food scraps, and dead rodents hidden in walls, attics, or other enclosed spaces. Symptoms include the smell itself, as well as signs of rodent activity like droppings, gnaw marks, and noises. To solve the issue, you'll need to identify and remove the source of the odor, seal up entry points, and eliminate the rodent population.