What can be used to poison mice and rats? - briefly
Various rodenticides—anticoagulant baits such as warfarin, bromadiolone, and difethialone, plus acute toxins like zinc phosphide, bromethalin, or strychnine—are used to kill mice and rats. These formulations are designed for controlled application and must follow label directions to prevent accidental harm to non‑target species.
What can be used to poison mice and rats? - in detail
Various compounds are employed to eliminate mice and rats, each with a specific mode of action and regulatory status.
Anticoagulant rodenticides interrupt blood clotting, leading to fatal hemorrhage after a single or multiple feedings. First‑generation agents such as warfarin, chlorophacinone, and diphacinone require several consecutive doses; second‑generation chemicals—bromadiolone, difenacoum, brodifacoum—are effective after one ingestion due to higher potency and longer half‑life.
Bromethalin disrupts cellular energy production by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation, causing rapid neurotoxicity and death within hours of a single dose.
Zinc phosphide releases phosphine gas when it contacts stomach acid; the gas is highly toxic, producing respiratory failure. Typically supplied as pellets or coated blocks.
Cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) induces hypercalcemia, resulting in kidney failure and cardiac arrhythmia after a few days of exposure.
Sodium fluoroacetate (compound 1080) interferes with the citric acid cycle, causing metabolic collapse and death within 24–48 hours.
Bromadiolone, difenacoum, and brodifacoum are often formulated as ready‑to‑eat baits, granules, or blocks designed for indoor or outdoor placement. Zinc phosphide appears as pelleted bait or coated grain. Bromethalin and cholecalciferol are commonly sold as wax blocks or soft chewable baits.
Regulatory agencies classify many of these substances as restricted use products, requiring licensed applicators, proper labeling, and secure bait stations to limit access by non‑target wildlife and children. Secondary poisoning risk is highest with second‑generation anticoagulants because they persist in the predator’s tissues.
Safety measures include wearing gloves, avoiding aerosol formation, storing baits in locked containers, and disposing of unused product according to local hazardous waste guidelines.
In summary, rodent control relies on anticoagulants, metabolic disruptors, phosphide compounds, and vitamin D analogues, each delivered in bait formats that match the target environment while adhering to legal and safety constraints.