What should you do if a rat comes out of the toilet? - briefly
Immediately shut off the water, leave the bathroom, and contact a licensed pest‑control professional; after the animal is removed, disinfect the fixture and surrounding area with a bleach solution. Do not handle the rodent personally, as it may carry disease.
What should you do if a rat comes out of the toilet? - in detail
If a rodent emerges from the toilet bowl, keep distance and avoid touching the animal. Close the lid gently to prevent escape, then shut the bathroom door to contain the situation.
- Wear disposable gloves or use a tool to capture the creature.
- Place the animal in a sealed container; release it far from the residence or hand it over to pest‑control professionals.
- Disinfect the toilet, surrounding floor, and any surfaces the animal contacted with a solution of diluted bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) or an EPA‑approved sanitizer. Flush the toilet several times to clear residual contamination.
- Inspect the plumbing for entry points: examine the trap, vent pipe, and any cracks in the bowl or sewer line. Seal gaps with waterproof silicone caulk or metal mesh where appropriate.
- Install a flush‑mounted screen or a one‑way valve on the toilet inlet to block future ingress.
- Reduce attractants: store food in sealed containers, eliminate standing water, and keep garbage tightly covered.
- Arrange for a professional pest‑inspection if sightings recur, as multiple rodents may indicate a larger infestation within the building’s drainage system.
Prompt removal, thorough sanitation, and sealing of potential access routes constitute the essential response to a toilet‑related rodent incident.