What should you do if a rat enters your house? - briefly
Seal entry points, set traps or bait stations, and contact a licensed pest‑control professional for safe removal. Afterwards, disinfect affected areas and store food in sealed containers to prevent recurrence.
What should you do if a rat enters your house? - in detail
When a rodent breaches a residence, swift containment prevents disease spread and structural damage.
First, eliminate direct contact. Wear disposable gloves and a mask; avoid touching the animal with bare hands.
Next, locate the entry point. Inspect walls, foundations, vents, and openings around pipes. Seal gaps with steel wool, caulk, or hardware cloth, ensuring closure of all possible routes.
Then, set traps or bait stations. Choose one of the following methods:
- Snap traps placed along walls, behind furniture, and near suspected pathways; position bait such as peanut butter or dried fruit.
- Live‑catch traps for relocation; check at least twice daily and release the animal at least one mile from the property.
- Electronic traps delivering instant kill; follow manufacturer safety guidelines.
Dispose of captured rodents according to local health regulations. Clean the area with a disinfectant solution (e.g., 1 % bleach) and allow it to air‑dry.
After removal, conduct a thorough sanitation:
- Remove droppings and urine stains; use a mop with detergent, then spray disinfectant.
- Launder any contaminated fabrics at high temperature.
- Inspect stored food; discard any items exposed to rodent contamination.
Finally, implement long‑term deterrence. Maintain a clean environment: store food in sealed containers, keep garbage bins closed, and eliminate clutter that offers shelter. Schedule periodic inspections of the building envelope, especially after seasonal changes, to address new gaps promptly.
Following these steps reduces the likelihood of recurrence and safeguards health and property.