What should you do when there are rats at home? - briefly
Seal all possible entry points, eliminate food sources, and deploy appropriate traps or bait stations; keep the area clean and store waste securely. If the problem persists, hire a licensed pest‑control service for comprehensive eradication.
What should you do when there are rats at home? - in detail
If rodents appear in a living space, immediate action reduces health risks and property damage. Begin by confirming the presence: look for droppings, gnaw marks, nesting material, and audible scurrying. Document locations to guide subsequent steps.
Secure food sources. Store all perishables in airtight containers, promptly clean crumbs from countertops, and empty pet feeders after each use. Remove standing water and fix leaking pipes, as moisture attracts infestation.
Identify and seal entry points. Inspect exterior walls, foundation cracks, utility openings, and vent covers. Use steel wool, copper mesh, or cement to close gaps larger than a quarter inch. Install door sweeps and weather stripping on all exterior doors.
Implement trapping or baiting. Choose snap traps for immediate kill, placing them perpendicular to walls where tracks are evident, with the trigger end facing the wall. Bait with peanut butter, dried fruit, or meat. For larger infestations, consider multiple-catch live traps, checking them at least twice daily and releasing captured animals far from the residence, following local regulations. If using poison baits, select tamper-resistant stations, label them clearly, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Maintain rigorous sanitation. Sweep floors, vacuum carpets, and wash dishes without delay. Dispose of garbage in sealed containers and remove it from the premises regularly. Clean behind appliances and under furniture where debris can accumulate.
Monitor progress. Continue to check traps and inspect previously infested areas for new signs. Replace or relocate traps as needed until activity ceases for several weeks.
When DIY measures fail or the problem persists beyond a few weeks, engage a licensed pest‑control professional. Experts can conduct a comprehensive inspection, apply rodenticides safely, and provide long‑term exclusion strategies.
After eradication, establish a preventive routine: quarterly inspections of entry points, routine cleaning, and prompt repair of water leaks. Consistent vigilance prevents re‑infestation and safeguards health.