Deterring Rats
Rats are agile creatures, capable of squeezing through spaces they appear too big for and gnawing at gaps to expand them. They will seize an opportunity to enter your home, so it’s important you deter rats at the earliest opportunity.
Black rats are excellent climbers, allowing them to inhabit lofts easily, whilst brown rats tend to burrow. Withholding access to food, water and shelter are the best ways to deter rats. Various methods can be used to prevent a rat infestation; however, if you already think you have a problem, it may be too late.
Rat Prevention
Food Storage
Ensure food is stored in metal or glass containers, with a tight fitting lid, and kept above ground level. Rats will eat almost anything, so it’s important all food, including fruit and vegetables, is stored appropriately to avoid contamination.
Food Waste
Always clear your food waste from the sink or counters and make sure you clean up any food, including crumbs and pet food, dropped on the floor.
Rubbish Bins
Put rubbish bags into outside bins, preferably metal, with securely fitted lids. Make sure any garden bins are free of food debris and, if you have a compost heap, don’t add organic food waste to it as this will attract rats.
Keep Your Property Tidy
Less clutter equates to less hiding places, so keep your house and garden clean. Rodents are attracted to cardboard, which they often chew to make nests, so avoid hoarding lots of cardboard boxes.