What is the poisoning of rats and mice called? - briefly
Poisoning rats and mice is termed the use of «rodenticide», a chemical agent designed to kill rodents.
What is the poisoning of rats and mice called? - in detail
The chemical elimination of rats and mice is referred to as rodenticide use. This term encompasses all formulations designed to induce mortality in rodent populations through toxic action.
Rodenticides fall into two principal categories. Anticoagulant agents interfere with blood clotting, leading to internal hemorrhage. Non‑anticoagulant agents cause death by neurotoxicity, metabolic disruption, or cellular damage.
Common active ingredients include:
- «warfarin» and related second‑generation anticoagulants such as «bromadiolone», «diphacinone» and «brodifacoum».
- «bromethalin», a neurotoxin that impairs mitochondrial function.
- «zinc phosphide», which releases phosphine gas upon ingestion.
- «cholecalciferol», a vitamin D₃ analogue that induces hypercalcemia.
Anticoagulant rodenticides act by inhibiting vitamin K epoxide reductase, preventing regeneration of active vitamin K and halting synthesis of clotting factors II, VII, IX and X. Non‑anticoagulants employ distinct mechanisms: bromethalin blocks ATP production, zinc phosphide generates a lethal gas, and cholecalciferol elevates calcium levels to fatal concentrations.
Regulatory frameworks classify rodenticides as restricted or unregistered products, requiring licensing, labeling, and record‑keeping. In many jurisdictions, second‑generation anticoagulants are subject to stricter controls due to secondary poisoning risks.
Safe application mandates personal protective equipment, secure storage, and placement of baits in tamper‑proof stations. Disposal of dead rodents and unused bait must follow hazardous waste protocols to prevent environmental contamination and non‑target exposure.