What is rat bait called? - briefly
The substance used to attract and eliminate rats is commonly termed «rodenticide», frequently sold under the label rat poison.
What is rat bait called? - in detail
The product used to attract and eliminate rats is commonly referred to as «rodent bait» or «rat poison». In professional pest‑control literature the term «rodenticide bait» designates any formulation that combines a palatable matrix with an active toxic ingredient.
Rodent bait categories are defined by the mode of action of the toxicant:
- Anticoagulant baits – contain compounds such as warfarin, bromadiolone, difenacoum or brodifacoum; they inhibit blood clotting, leading to fatal hemorrhage after several days of ingestion.
- Non‑anticoagulant baits – include zinc phosphide, bromethalin, cholecalciferol or diphacinone; they act through metabolic disruption, neurotoxicity or calcium overload, producing rapid death.
- Secondary‑contact baits – formulated for placement on surfaces; they rely on rodents contacting the toxicant rather than ingesting a food matrix.
Formulation types vary to match delivery methods and target environments:
- Pelleted or block baits – dense, low‑moisture products suitable for indoor or sheltered outdoor use.
- Grain‑based baits – loose granules or cereal mixes designed for outdoor placement where rats forage on natural food sources.
- Liquid baits – syrup or gel preparations applied to traps or feeding stations for rapid consumption.
Regulatory agencies assign specific identifiers to each product. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies them under the registration number «EPA‑registered rodenticide». In the European Union, the classification follows the Biocidal Products Regulation (BPR) and is listed as a «type‑II rodenticide».
Label information typically includes:
- Active ingredient name and concentration.
- Target species – rat, mouse or broader rodent spectrum.
- Application instructions – placement density, baiting frequency, safety precautions.
Understanding the precise terminology assists pest‑control professionals in selecting appropriate products, complying with legal requirements, and minimizing non‑target exposure.