Help! I've Got Rats! Steps to Immediately Take

Reverbtime Magazine

  • 0
  • 26
Scroll Down For More

Discovering rodents in your home, particularly rats, can be an overwhelming and distressing experience. They can chew through electrical wires, damage your furniture, and carry diseases that can affect you and your family. You need to take immediate action before they cause more damage and spread their infestation. This post will provide you with helpful tips on what to do when you find rats in your home. Let's get started!

 

Identify the Source of the Problem

Before you take any action, it's crucial to identify the source of the situation. Look for signs of rat infestation such as droppings, chew marks, and unusual noises at night. Check your attic, crawl spaces, and any areas that may provide food and water that rats need. Once you've identified the source of the problem, you can proceed to the next step.

Apart from the common areas mentioned above, it's important to also check other places where rats may hide or find food. This includes your kitchen pantry, cabinets, and even behind appliances. Rats are known to be excellent climbers and can easily access these areas through small gaps and holes in your walls or floors. It's also important to check outdoor spaces such as sheds, garages, and basements. These areas can also provide shelter and food for rats, making them potential hotspots for infestation, so keep your eyes open.

 

Seal Up Any Entry Points

Rodents can enter your home through small cracks and crevices in your walls, doors, windows, and foundation. Seal up any potential entry points using steel wool and expanding foam. Don't forget to make sure that your doors and windows are adequately sealed. Rats can squeeze through gaps as small as a quarter, so it's crucial to seal even the tiniest holes.

If you're having trouble sealing up all the entry points, it's best to seek professional help. Hiring a rodent control service can save you time and effort in finding and sealing every potential entry point. They have the necessary tools and expertise to thoroughly inspect your home and seal any gaps or holes that may be overlooked. Additionally, they can also provide long-term solutions to prevent future infestations.

 

Remove Their Food Sources

Just like any other animal, rats require food and water to survive. Remove any potential food sources by ensuring your trash cans have tight lids and not leaving any food out on counters. Store food in airtight containers, including pet food. Additionally, repair any leaks as soon as possible and make sure there's no standing water throughout your home or garage.

Some common foods that rats are attracted to include grains, fruits, and vegetables. They are also drawn to sugary foods like chocolate and dried fruit. Pet food is another big attractant for rats, so be sure to store it in a sealed container and not leave any leftovers out overnight. Rats have a keen sense of smell and will even go after food scraps left in your garbage disposal or sink, so cleaning up after yourself is just as important as sealing up entry points.

 

Use Traps and Baits

Snap traps and baits are the most effective ways of getting rid of rats. Place the traps in areas where you have seen rat activity, preferably near the walls and corners of the room. Use gloves when handling the trap and dispose of it immediately once you've caught the rat. Baits are also an option, but you must follow the instructions carefully to avoid harming other pets or children. Always use tamper-resistant bait stations in areas where children or pets may access them.

You can find traps and baits at your local hardware store or online. There are various types of traps available, including traditional snap traps, electronic traps, and humane live-capture traps. Make sure to choose the trap that best fits your needs and is appropriate for the size of rats in your area.

If you're not comfortable handling traps or bait yourself, you can always hire a professional pest control service to assist you in setting them up and disposing of caught rats. They will also have access to more potent baits and traps that may not be available for purchase by the general public.

 

Keep Kids and Pets Safe

When dealing with rats in your home, it's important to also consider the safety of your children and pets. Rats can carry diseases that can be harmful to humans and animals, so it's crucial to take precautions to keep them safe.

Make sure to use child-proof locks on bait stations and always supervise children and pets when they are in areas where traps or baits have been set up. It's also important to regularly check and dispose of any trapped rats to prevent accidental exposure to children or pets.

To keep your pets safe and away from rats, make sure to store all pet food in sealed containers. Also, regularly clean up any leftovers or spills from their bowls. If possible, feed your pets inside rather than leaving food outside where it can attract rats.

 

If All Else Fails, Call a Professional

If you've tried all of the above steps and you still have a rat infestation, it's time to call a professional exterminator. They have the knowledge, tools, and experience to get rid of rats effectively. They'll also provide you with helpful tips to keep your home rat-free in the future.

When looking for a professional, it's important to do your research and find a reputable and experienced company. Ask for recommendations from friends and family, read online reviews and ratings, and make sure they are licensed and insured. It's also essential to get multiple quotes and compare prices before making a decision.

Additionally, ask about their methods and treatments to ensure they align with your preferences. A great professional exterminator will also provide a warranty or guarantee for their services, giving you peace of mind knowing that they stand behind their work.

 

What Not to Do

It's crucial to note that there are certain things you should avoid doing when dealing with a rat infestation. First and foremost, do not attempt to handle or remove rats yourself if you're not familiar with handling them. Rats can carry diseases and can bite if they feel threatened, so it's best to leave it to professionals.

Using poison as a method of control should be avoided if possible. Poison can pose a significant risk to children and pets, and rats may die in hard-to-reach areas, leaving behind a foul odor. It's also important not to use ultrasonic devices or other unproven methods as they have not been proven effective in getting rid of rats. It's always best to stick with tried-and-tested methods and seek professional help when needed.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When dealing with a rat infestation, it's important to avoid common mistakes that may worsen the situation. One of the most common mistakes people make is not taking immediate action when they discover rats in their home. Rats reproduce quickly and can lead to a larger infestation if not dealt with promptly.

Another mistake is only addressing one aspect of the problem, such as setting traps without sealing entry points. This can result in a continuous cycle of trapping rats without addressing the root cause of the infestation. It's also essential to avoid using materials or methods that are not safe or approved for use against rodents, as this can pose a risk to your health and safety.

 

How to Deal With the Aftermath

After successfully getting rid of rats in your home, it's important to address the aftermath. This includes thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting areas where rats were present to get rid of any remaining bacteria or diseases they may have carried. Additionally, repairing any damage caused by the infestation, such as chewed wires or furniture, is crucial to prevent future problems.

It's also important to continue taking preventive measures, such as sealing entry points and removing potential food sources, to avoid a re-infestation. Remember to also monitor for any signs of rats in the future and take prompt action if you suspect another infestation. By following these steps and being proactive, you can effectively deal with rats in your home and prevent them from returning, but the key is to keep things consistent.

Rat infestations are not only stressful but also pose a significant threat to your family's health and well-being. By identifying the source of the problem, sealing up entry points, removing food sources, using traps and baits, and calling a professional exterminator, you can eliminate rats from your home and prevent future infestations. With a little patience, effort, and determination, you can get rid of rats and enjoy a pest-free home.

Related Posts
Comments 0
Leave A Comment