How to catch rats with your own hands at home? - briefly
«Set up snap or live traps baited with high‑protein food, position them along walls and near suspected entry points, and wear thick gloves when checking and disposing of captured rodents.» «Handle each capture promptly to prevent disease spread and seal any gaps to stop re‑infestation.»
How to catch rats with your own hands at home? - in detail
Capturing rodents manually inside a residence requires preparation, protective gear, and a systematic approach.
First, isolate the infestation area. Close doors and windows leading to other rooms, seal gaps around pipes, vents, and baseboards with steel wool or foam sealant. This prevents escape and limits further spread.
Second, assemble the necessary equipment: thick rubber gloves, a sturdy cloth or towel, a sturdy bucket with a tight‑fitting lid, a flashlight, and a disinfectant solution. Optional tools include a snap trap for secondary capture and a pair of long‑handled tongs for handling larger specimens.
Third, select an effective bait. Peanut butter, dried fruit, or small pieces of meat placed on a shallow dish attract rats quickly. Position the bait at the suspected activity site, preferably near walls where rodents travel.
Fourth, monitor the baited location continuously. Use the flashlight to scan for movement, focusing on shadows and droppings. When a rat approaches, move slowly, keep the cloth ready, and, once the animal is within arm’s reach, cover it swiftly with the cloth, then slide the bucket underneath and seal the lid.
Fifth, handle the captured rodent safely. Transfer the bucket to an outdoor disposal area, open the lid away from the body, and release the animal at least 200 meters from the dwelling, or place it in a sealed bag for municipal pest control.
Sixth, decontaminate the capture zone. Apply a disinfectant to all surfaces the rodent contacted, then clean the floor and any nearby objects. Replace any contaminated food containers and store waste in sealed bags.
Seventh, implement preventive measures to reduce future incidents. Maintain a clean environment, store food in airtight containers, remove standing water, and regularly inspect entry points for new gaps.
Following these steps ensures a controlled, humane, and effective manual removal of rats from a home environment.