How to get rid of a rat in the toilet? - briefly
Seal all gaps around the toilet and nearby pipes, then place snap traps or rodent bait directly in the bowl and surrounding area; after capture, clean and disinfect thoroughly to prevent reinfestation.
How to get rid of a rat in the toilet? - in detail
A rodent discovered in the bathroom fixture requires immediate, safe action. First, confirm the animal’s presence by listening for movement, checking for droppings, or observing tracks around the basin. Turn off the water supply to the toilet to prevent accidental flooding and wear thick gloves to protect against bites and disease.
- Contain the area – Close the bathroom door, seal gaps under the door with a towel, and block other exits with towels or cardboard.
- Set a trap – Use a snap trap or a live‑capture cage baited with peanut butter, cheese, or dried fruit. Place the device directly under the toilet seat, aligning it with the opening where the rodent entered.
- Apply a deterrent – If trapping is not feasible, spray a rodent‑repellent aerosol into the bowl and the surrounding floor, then flush repeatedly to force the animal out.
- Remove the animal – Once captured, transport the trap to an outdoor location at least 100 m from the home and release a live‑capture cage, or, if using a lethal trap, dispose of the carcass in a sealed bag and place it in a trash container.
After removal, disinfect the toilet and surrounding surfaces with a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Inspect plumbing for breaches; seal any cracks in the pipe or flange with silicone caulk. Install a metal mesh screen over the toilet outlet to block future entry. Maintain a clean bathroom, store food securely, and eliminate clutter that could provide shelter, thereby reducing the likelihood of recurrence.