How to remove domestic rats? - briefly
Seal all entry points, remove food and water sources, and deploy snap or live traps strategically; inspect and repeat the process until activity ceases. For extensive infestations, engage a licensed pest‑control service.
How to remove domestic rats? - in detail
Identify entry points by inspecting walls, floors, vents, and utility openings. Seal gaps larger than ¼ inch with steel wool, caulk, or metal flashing; rodents can compress smaller openings. Remove food sources: store dry goods in airtight containers, clean spills promptly, and keep garbage in sealed bins. Eliminate water supplies by fixing leaks and drying damp areas.
Choose control methods based on infestation severity. Mechanical traps (snap, electronic, or multi‑catch) provide immediate reduction; place them perpendicular to walls, with bait at the rear. Bait stations containing anticoagulant or bromethalin pellets offer long‑term suppression; locate them out of reach of children and pets, and rotate placement every few days to cover new activity zones. Live‑capture cages allow relocation, but released animals may return if habitat conditions remain unchanged.
Implement a monitoring program. Mark each trap or station with the date of placement; record captures to assess population trends. Increase trap density in high‑traffic zones until captures decline to zero for three consecutive weeks.
If the problem persists despite exclusion and trapping, enlist a licensed pest‑control professional. They can apply rodenticides safely, conduct structural assessments, and provide a comprehensive management plan.
Maintain preventive measures continuously: routine inspections, regular sanitation, and prompt repair of structural defects. Consistent application of these steps reduces the likelihood of reinfestation and protects health and property.