How to quickly get rid of rats in a cellar? - briefly
Identify and seal every opening that allows rodents to enter the cellar, using steel wool, cement, or metal flashing. Deploy snap traps or bait stations along active runways, and if the problem persists, hire a licensed exterminator for professional removal.
How to quickly get rid of rats in a cellar? - in detail
Identify entry points by inspecting walls, floor joists, pipes, and vents. Seal cracks larger than ¼ inches with steel wool, cement, or expanding foam. Install door sweeps on cellar access doors.
Choose control methods based on urgency and safety:
- Snap traps: place along walls, behind objects, and near droppings. Use bait such as peanut butter or dried fruit. Check daily and dispose of carcasses in sealed bags.
- Electronic traps: deliver a high‑voltage shock, allowing quick kill and easy cleaning.
- Live‑catch cages: set with attractive bait, release captured rodents far from the property, complying with local regulations.
- Rodenticides: apply in tamper‑resistant bait stations. Follow label instructions, keep stations out of reach of children and pets, and monitor for secondary poisoning risks.
Implement sanitation measures to remove food sources:
- Store all stored goods in sealed, rodent‑proof containers.
- Clean up spilled grain, pet food, or debris promptly.
- Remove clutter that offers hiding places; keep shelving off the floor.
Maintain environmental conditions unfavorable to rodents:
- Reduce humidity with a dehumidifier; rats prefer moist environments.
- Ensure adequate ventilation to discourage nesting.
Monitor progress:
- Place non‑toxic tracking powder near suspected pathways to confirm activity.
- Record trap captures and signs of gnawing or droppings weekly.
- Continue sealing any new openings discovered during monitoring.
If infestation persists after these actions, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. They can perform thorough fumigation, apply advanced baiting systems, and provide a long‑term management plan.