What should be done if a rat is active? - briefly
Block access to food, seal entry points, and use suitable traps or professional pest control. Keep monitoring and maintain sanitation to prevent further activity.
What should be done if a rat is active? - in detail
When a rodent is observed moving actively inside a building, immediate containment and assessment are required.
First, identify the entry points. Inspect walls, floors, vents, and utility openings for gaps larger than a quarter‑inch. Seal each opening with steel wool, caulk, or metal mesh to prevent further ingress.
Second, set up trapping devices. Choose snap traps or electronic models for rapid kill, and place them along walls, behind appliances, and near known runways. Use bait such as peanut butter, dried fruit, or small pieces of meat. Position traps perpendicular to the wall, with the trigger end facing the rodent’s travel direction. Replace uncaught traps daily.
Third, eliminate food sources. Store all dry goods in airtight containers, clean crumbs from countertops, and secure garbage in sealed bins. Remove pet food after feeding and keep it in metal containers.
Fourth, maintain sanitation. Sweep floors, vacuum upholstery, and wipe surfaces with a disinfectant solution to remove urine and droppings, which attract additional rodents.
Fifth, monitor activity. Keep a log of trap captures, noting dates, locations, and numbers. If catches decline but signs persist—such as gnaw marks or droppings—re‑evaluate trap placement and consider increasing trap density.
Sixth, consider professional assistance. When infestation signs exceed a few individuals, or when structural damage is evident, engage a licensed pest‑control operator. They can perform thorough inspections, apply rodenticides safely, and offer long‑term exclusion strategies.
Finally, conduct a post‑remediation review. Verify that all entry points remain sealed, food storage practices are upheld, and sanitation routines continue. Regular inspections, at least quarterly, help detect early activity and prevent recurrence.