What ingredients are in mouse poison? - briefly
Typical rodent baits contain anticoagulant agents such as bromadiolone, brodifacoum, or warfarin, mixed with a grain‑based carrier to attract mice. Some products also use metal phosphides (e.g., zinc phosphide) that generate phosphine gas after ingestion.
What ingredients are in mouse poison? - in detail
Rodent control products contain a blend of toxic agents, attractants, and inert carriers designed to ensure ingestion and lethal effect.
The primary lethal compounds fall into several categories.
- Second‑generation anticoagulants – bromadiolone, difenacoum, brodifacoum, chlorophacinone. They block vitamin K recycling, causing fatal internal bleeding after several days of consumption. Typical concentrations range from 0.005 % to 0.05 % of the bait weight.
- First‑generation anticoagulants – warfarin, diphacinone. Similar mode of action but require multiple feedings; used at 0.025 %–0.1 % levels.
- Metal phosphides – zinc phosphide, aluminum phosphide. Release phosphine gas in the acidic stomach, producing rapid respiratory failure. Formulations contain 1 %–5 % phosphide.
- Neurotoxins – strychnine, tetramethylenedisulfotetramine (TETS). Interfere with neuronal transmission, causing convulsions and death within minutes. Concentrations are usually 0.1 %–0.5 %.
- Acute rodenticides – bromethalin, diphacinone‑based fast‑acting blends. Disrupt mitochondrial function, leading to cerebral edema. Used at 0.005 %–0.03 %.
Inert components serve to attract, bind, and preserve the product. Common elements include:
- Palatable carriers – wheat, cornmeal, peanut butter, cheese powder, fish meal. Provide the scent and taste that encourage feeding.
- Binding agents – vegetable oil, gelatin, starch. Ensure the bait retains shape and moisture.
- Dyes and flavor enhancers – red or yellow pigments, sweeteners, aromatic oils. Aid visual identification and increase palatability.
- Preservatives – propylene glycol, sorbic acid. Extend shelf life and prevent microbial growth.
Regulatory limits dictate maximum permissible concentrations for each toxicant, often expressed in milligrams of active ingredient per kilogram of bait. Labels must list the active ingredient, concentration, hazard symbols, and first‑aid instructions.
Understanding the precise composition clarifies the intended mode of action, required exposure time, and safety precautions for both target rodents and non‑target species.