LONDON PEST CONTROL AVAILABLE 24/7

Search
Close this search box.

How To Get Rid Of Rats

How to get rid of rats

With their keen instincts and nimble bodies, rats are infamous for invading homes and causing havoc. These persistent creatures can pose a severe threat to both your property and your health. From gnawing wires and contaminating food to spreading diseases, their presence is more than a nuisance.

Despite their reasonably small size, getting rid of these pests is often daunting. The reason is simple: rats are highly adaptable rodents. They can survive in various climates and conditions, making them one of the most resilient pests you might encounter.

In this article, we’ll explore effective methods to prevent and eliminate rat infestations, helping you restore peace and safety in your home. Bear in mind that while some of these methods on how to get rid of rats may require considerable effort, the peace of mind that comes with a rat-free environment is well worth the work as they can present a considerable impact to health.

How To Recognise a Rat Infestation

Recognising a rat infestation primarily involves being vigilant and attentive to specific signs. There only a couple of species in the UK so the signs aren’t too varied. Rats are typically nocturnal, so you are more likely to notice evidence of their activities rather than the rats themselves. Some of the common signs to look out for include:

  • Droppings: Rats leave behind small, dark droppings that are typically found in concentrated areas.
  • Gnaw Marks: Rats have strong teeth that can gnaw through almost anything. Look for gnaw marks on food packaging, wooden structures, and especially wires as this can lead to fires .
  • Scratching Noises: Listen for scratching sounds, particularly during the night. These noises may come from the attic, inside walls, or other hidden areas where rats might nest.
  • Nests: Rats build nests from shredded material such as paper, fabric, or plant matter. Finding such nests is a clear indication of an infestation.
  • Unusual Pet Behaviour: Cats and dogs often become excited or anxious when they detect rats. If your pet is paying unusual attention to a particular area of your house, there might be rats.

How To Get Rid Of Rats In The Home

Successfully eliminating rats from your home requires a comprehensive understanding of their habits and the environmental conditions that attract them. These rodents are primarily attracted to environments that provide easy food, water, and shelter access. Our homes, unfortunately, often inadvertently offer all three. Understanding this essential element of rat behaviour is the first step toward creating an environment less inviting to these persistent creatures. 

Remember that the goal is not only to get rid of the present infestation but also to prevent future ones. Hence, while considering measures for rat eradication, it’s equally important to anticipate their potential return. This involves identifying and sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, and promptly addressing any signs of a re-infestation. Ultimately, the most effective way to get rid of rats in the home is to create an environment that is inherently inhospitable to them.

To effectively deter rats from your home, consider the following strategies:

  • Seal Entry Points: Examine your home thoroughly for cracks, gaps, or holes. Rats can squeeze through small openings, so sealing all potential entry points is crucial in preventing a rat infestation.
  • Keep food Sealed: Rats are highly attracted to food. Storing food in sealed containers and cleaning up any spills immediately can significantly reduce the likelihood of a rat infestation.
  • Regularly Dispose of Garbage: Ensure your garbage is regularly sealed and removed from your home. Overfilled garbage cans can quickly become a source of food for rats.
  • Maintain a Clean Home: A clean home is less attractive to rats. Regular cleaning, particularly in hidden and hard-to-reach areas, can help deter these pests.
  • Ultrasonic Device: Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to rats. Placing these devices in areas where rats are commonly found can help repel them.

 

Remember, the most effective rat deterrent strategy combines these methods. Regular vigilance and prompt action at the first sign of rats can save you from a full-blown infestation.

How To Get Rid Of Rats From The Attic

Rats can get into your loft by climbing trees, which may overhang your roof. Getting rid of rats from the attic can be tricky due to the confined space and the many hiding spots it offers. However, you can make your attic a rat-free area with the right strategies.

Start by clearing the attic. Rats love cluttered spaces as they provide plenty of hiding spots. Remove unnecessary items from your attic, ensuring minimal places for rats to hide. This will make the space less inviting to them and give you a better view of their activities.

Next, seal any entry points. Rats are known to squeeze through tiny gaps or holes, making the attic a prime spot. Inspect your attic thoroughly for possible entry points, such as holes or cracks, and seal them immediately. Remember, a rat can fit through a tiny gap, so don’t dismiss even the smallest holes. Use metal mesh or steel wool to seal these openings, as rats cannot gnaw through them.

Consider using an ultrasonic device. These devices emit high-frequency sounds unpleasant to rats, repelling them from the area. Place these devices in various spots in the attic, focusing on areas where you’ve noticed signs of rat activity.

Finally, ensure that you regularly clean and inspect your attic. This will deter rats and alert you immediately if there’s a new infestation brewing. With these strategies and consistent vigilance, you can eliminate rats from your attic.

Have A Rat Infestation?

Dyno-Pest have decades of experience in rat control. Speak to our expert technicians today!

How To Get Rid Of Rats In The Garden

Maintaining a beautiful and productive garden can be a labour of love, but the presence of rats can quickly turn this peaceful retreat into a source of stress. These pests can cause significant damage to your plants, gnaw on garden furniture, and even pose a risk to your health. Getting rid of rats in the garden may seem daunting, but reclaiming your garden is possible with proper preventive measures and non-lethal strategies.

Consider these methods to deter rats from your garden:

  • Remove Sources of Food and Shelter: Rats are attracted to gardens that provide easy food and shelter. Open bins and fallen fruits can attract rats, so managing these properly is important. 
  • Manage Your Compost Bin: Compost bins can attract rats due to their organic waste. Always use a bin with a tight-fitting lid, and try to turn the compost regularly to speed up the composting process and deter rats. Avoid adding cooked food, dairy, or meat to your compost, as these items are particularly attractive to rats.
  • Use Rat-Proof Bird Feeders: Bird feeders are a common food source for rats. If you enjoy feeding the birds in your garden, consider switching to rat-proof bird feeders. These feeders are designed to prevent rats from accessing the food while still allowing the birds to feed. They are typically made of chew-proof materials and have mechanisms that close the feeding ports when a rat tries to access them. Clean up any spilt bird food promptly, as this can also attract rats. Place bird feeders at a height where rats cannot reach them and away from fences or branches that rats could use to climb to the feeder. If rats continue to be a problem, consider stopping the feeding until the rat problem is under control. Your love for birds shouldn’t inadvertently turn your garden into a haven for rats.
  • Maintain a Clean Garden: Regularly mowing your lawn, trimming the plants, and removing garden waste can deter rats. Rats prefer gardens with plenty of cover, so a well-maintained garden will be less appealing.
  • Use Plant-Based Deterrents: Some plants, such as mint, daffodils, and alliums, are known to repel rats. Planting these around your garden can help keep rats away.
  • Introduce Natural Predators: If possible, encourage natural predators such as owls, hawks, and foxes into your garden. This can be done by providing nesting boxes for birds of prey or leaving areas of your garden wild to attract foxes.

 

By effectively implementing these strategies, you can rid your garden of rats without resorting to harmful baits or traps. Regular inspection and prompt action at the first sign of rats can prevent a full-blown infestation.

Natural Way To Get Rid Of Rats

Nature provides several effective and non-harmful ways to deter rats. 

Essential Oils: Certain scents, such as peppermint, citronella, and eucalyptus, are known to repel rats. You can soak cotton balls in these essential oils and place them around your property, where rats are often seen. 

Cayenne Pepper: The strong smell of cayenne pepper can deter rats. Sprinkle it around the perimeter of your property or mix it with water to create a spray. 

Onions: The smell of onions is highly unpleasant to rats. Place slices of onion in rat-prone areas to discourage their presence. 

Predator Urine: Rats instinctively avoid areas where their predators frequent. Products containing the scent of predator urine, such as from foxes or cats, can be used to repel rats.

Moth Balls: Mothballs are another natural repellent for rats. They can be placed in attics, basements, or any area where rats are found. However, mothballs should be used cautiously as they can be harmful if ingested by pets or children.

Sound Deterrents: Certain high-frequency sounds are intolerable to rats and can be used to deter them. These can be achieved with ultrasonic devices or even a well-tuned wind chime.

Remember, consistency and regular follow-up are essential when using these natural methods to ensure that rats are kept at bay.

While these natural solutions can help deter rats, it’s important to note that they may only sometimes be entirely adequate. Rats are resourceful creatures, and given their rapid reproduction rate and adaptable nature, it might be challenging to achieve a completely rat-free environment using these methods alone. However, they can be part of an integrated pest management approach, employing various techniques to control and prevent rat infestations effectively.

Professional Rat Control Methods

Professional pest control services offer an effective and efficient solution for rat infestations. These experts have the knowledge, experience, and tools necessary to handle rat problems safely, humanely, and comprehensively. They use various methods to minimise rat populations and deter them from returning to your property. 

  • Traps and Baits: Pest control professionals often use specially designed traps and baits to catch and remove rats. These methods are carefully monitored to ensure they are effective and do not harm non-target species.
  • Fumigation: In severe cases, fumigation may be necessary. This involves using pesticides to exterminate the rats. The process is carried out by trained professionals who ensure it’s done safely and following local regulations.
  • Proofing: This method involves identifying and sealing any potential entry points for rats into your property. Professionals use high-quality materials that rats cannot gnaw through. 
  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM): This approach uses a combination of methods to control rats effectively. It includes identifying the source of the infestation, using traps or baits, proofing, and monitoring the situation to ensure rats don’t return.
  • Consultation and Prevention Advice: Professionals advise preventing future infestations beyond immediate pest control. This might include recommendations on waste management, landscaping modifications, feeding pets indoors, and more.

When Should You Contact A Professional Rat Exterminator?

If you’ve tried various DIY methods and natural deterrents but still see signs of rat activity in or on your property, it’s time to call a professional rat exterminator. The presence of rat droppings, gnawed items, rat nests, or even spotting rats, particularly during the day, can all indicate serious infestation.

Should you live in an area with a high rat population, or if your property has suffered from previous infestations, consider professional help sooner. It’s also advisable to get professional help for vulnerable individuals in your home, like children, older adults, or those with compromised immunity, as rat infestations can pose significant health risks.

Ultimately, the decision to contact a professional rat control service should be based on the severity of the problem and the success (or lack thereof) of your control efforts.

Share Advice
Rat Advice

Need Any Help?

Click below to get a FREE quote from us