How To Handle Rats Inside and Outside Your Home

Rats are sneaky little pests. When they make their way into our homes, they bring a whole host of problems. Not only can they damage property, but they also pose health risks. This article provides guidance on how to handle these uninvited guests in your home.

Identify the Signs

When rats decide to take up residence in your home, they usually leave clues. You might hear scratching sounds in the walls, especially at night. Or you might find small, dark droppings in places like the attic or behind appliances. Finding chewed wires, torn insulation, or even gnawed food packages can also indicate a rat problem. 

Understand Their Behavior

Rats are more than just scavengers; they’re smart and adaptive creatures. By understanding their behavior, homeowners can better tackle a rat problem. These rodents are primarily nocturnal, meaning they’re most active during the night. They tend to establish territories and travel routes, usually along walls or tucked away areas. 

Rats are also creatures of habit. They will often take the same paths and eat at the same places consistently. By noting these habits, you can strategically place traps or monitor specific zones for activity.

Seal Entry Points

Rats are excellent climbers and can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps. Inspect your home’s exterior for any holes or cracks. Even the tiniest of openings can be an invitation for rats to enter. It’s essential to seal off these entry points using materials that rats can’t chew through, like metal mesh or steel wool. Once the gaps are sealed, you’ve effectively locked out any new rats from coming in.

Set Up Traps

Using traps is a common method to catch and remove rats from your home. There are various types of traps available. Snap traps can be effective for catching rats. Place these traps near the areas where you’ve noticed rat activity. Always use gloves when handling traps to keep your scent off them. 

For those uncomfortable with lethal traps, there are also catch-and-release options available. Whichever type you choose, check traps daily and remove any caught rats promptly.

Avoid Poison

It might seem tempting to use poison to get rid of rats, but there are downsides. Firstly, poisoned rats might die in inaccessible areas, like inside walls, leading to unpleasant odors. Secondly, other animals, like pets or local wildlife, might consume the poison, causing unintended harm. For these reasons, it’s often best to avoid poisons and seek other solutions.

Maintain Cleanliness

Rats are always on the lookout for food. To discourage these pests, it’s essential to maintain a clean living environment. Ensure that all food is stored in airtight containers. Clean up crumbs and spills promptly, and take the trash out regularly. By removing their food sources, you make your home less attractive to rats.

Protect Your Garden and Outdoor Spaces

Your home’s exterior can be just as inviting to rats as the inside, especially if there’s a garden. Rats love feasting on fruits, vegetables, and nuts. If you’re a gardener, consider using rat-proof barriers or mesh around your plants.

Compost heaps can also attract rats. It’s essential to use compost bins with a secure lid and ensure that no food scraps are easily accessible. Remember, rats need water, too, so make sure to cover or remove any sources of standing water around your property.

Seek Professional Help

If the rat problem persists or seems too overwhelming, it might be time to call in the professionals. Pest control experts have the knowledge, tools, and experience to deal with rat infestations effectively. They can also provide more insights into preventing future infestations.

Need expert assistance with your rat problem? Contact Eary Termite & Pest Services today, and let us take care of the pests for you!