How can you bring a rat into the house? - briefly
Capture a wild rat with a humane trap, place it in a sealed container, and transport it to the home where you release it into a secure enclosure. Provide the enclosure with food, water, and hiding places to keep the animal safe.
How can you bring a rat into the house? - in detail
To move a rodent from the outdoors into a dwelling, follow a systematic approach that minimizes stress for the animal and reduces risk to occupants.
First, identify the target rat and assess its health. Use gloves and a mask to protect against fur, urine, and potential pathogens. Choose a humane trap—such as a live‑catch cage with a baited trigger plate. Place the trap along known runways, near food sources, and set the bait (peanut butter, dried fruit, or meat). Check the trap frequently, at least every two hours, to prevent prolonged confinement.
When the trap is triggered, approach calmly, keep the cage covered, and transport it to an interior location. Secure the cage on a stable surface, then open it in a controlled area, such as a garage or a room with a closed door. Allow the rat to exit voluntarily; if it hesitates, gently tilt the cage to encourage movement. Close the entry point immediately after the animal leaves to prevent re‑entry.
If a live‑catch trap is unavailable, a sturdy box (e.g., a plastic storage container) can serve as an improvised enclosure. Position the box over the rat, slide a piece of cardboard underneath, and lift the box while keeping the rodent inside. Seal the box with tape, then proceed as described above.
After release, inspect the interior for signs of additional rodents—droppings, gnaw marks, or nests. Seal gaps larger than ¼ inch in walls, floors, and around pipes. Install door sweeps and screen vents. Maintain cleanliness by storing food in sealed containers and disposing of waste promptly.
The entire process should be completed within a short time frame to limit exposure to disease vectors and to ensure the animal’s welfare.