What should be done if there are many rats in the house? - briefly
Seal all possible entry points, deploy snap or electronic traps, and contact a professional pest‑control service for comprehensive eradication. Maintain rigorous sanitation, store food in airtight containers, and eliminate clutter to prevent future infestations.
What should be done if there are many rats in the house? - in detail
A rat infestation in a residence requires a systematic approach that addresses entry, attraction, and removal.
First, identify and block all potential ingress points. Inspect foundations, walls, windows, doors, and utility openings. Seal gaps larger than a quarter‑inch with steel wool, metal mesh, or cement, because rodents can gnaw through softer materials.
Second, eliminate food sources. Store dry goods in airtight containers, keep countertops and floors free of crumbs, and secure garbage in sealed bins. Remove standing water and fix leaks, as moisture attracts rodents.
Third, implement control measures. Deploy a combination of mechanical traps and bait stations:
- Snap traps positioned along walls, behind objects, and near known activity.
- Live‑catch traps for humane capture, placed in concealed locations.
- Anticoagulant bait stations, secured out of reach of children and pets, following label instructions.
Rotate trap placement weekly to prevent trap avoidance. Check and reset traps daily; dispose of captured rodents according to local regulations.
Fourth, consider professional pest‑control services when infestation severity exceeds DIY capacity. Licensed operators can apply rodenticides, perform extensive sealing, and provide follow‑up monitoring.
Finally, maintain ongoing surveillance. Install motion‑activated sensors or tracking powders to detect renewed activity. Conduct periodic inspections of structural seals and sanitation practices to prevent re‑infestation.
By integrating exclusion, sanitation, targeted trapping, and, when necessary, expert intervention, a household can effectively eradicate a large rat population and safeguard health and property.