How can you catch a rat in the house using a glue trap? - briefly
Place a baited glue board in high‑traffic areas such as along walls, behind appliances, or near droppings, securing it firmly to prevent shifting, and inspect the trap regularly to remove and dispose of any captured rat according to local guidelines.
How can you catch a rat in the house using a glue trap? - in detail
Capturing a rodent indoors with an adhesive trap requires preparation, precise placement, and careful handling.
First, select a high‑quality glue board designed for mammals. Verify that the product is rated for rats, as smaller traps may not hold larger specimens. Wear disposable gloves to avoid contaminating the adhesive surface.
Identify active pathways: look for fresh droppings, gnaw marks, or grease trails along walls, behind appliances, and near food sources. Place the trap perpendicular to these routes, with the sticky side facing the wall so the animal must step onto it when moving forward. Secure the board to the floor or baseboard with tape or a small weight to prevent displacement.
Set a monitoring routine. Check the trap at least once daily; prolonged confinement can cause severe distress to the animal and may increase the risk of escape if the adhesive deteriorates. When a capture occurs, keep the trap sealed in a plastic bag before transport to a disposal site. Follow local regulations for humane euthanasia or professional pest‑control services.
After removal, clean the area thoroughly. Use a disinfectant to eliminate scent traces that could attract other rodents. Seal any gaps larger than ¼ inch in walls, floors, and around pipes to prevent re‑entry. Replace damaged food containers with airtight options and maintain regular sanitation to reduce attractants.
If adhesive traps prove ineffective, consider complementary methods such as snap traps, electronic devices, or live‑catch cages, always adhering to safety guidelines and legal requirements. Combining multiple strategies enhances long‑term control while minimizing the likelihood of recurrence.