Four Of The Best DIY Rat Control Techniques
Even with COVID-19 shuttering most of us inside our homes and aching for company, there is one guest you could do without: rats. The mere sight of one scampering along the floorboard of your house or scurrying through the roof is enough to send shivers down your spine; that's why rat control should be part of your regularly scheduled pest control services. In between appointments though, there are a few things you can do to help keep these crawly critters at bay.
Peanut Butter Baits
You don't need to buy an expensive bait trap from the store to catch a rat, all you need is a little bit of rat poison and peanut butter. Mix 1/2 cup of boric acid in with 1 cup of peanut butter, roll it up into little balls, and place them strategically around your house - in corners, behind bookshelves, and underneath beds (where kids and pets can't get to them). Rats love the taste of peanut butter, and the boric acid is toxic within minutes.
High Pitch Frequencies
Just like dogs can't stand the sound of a high-pitched dog whistle, so rats can't bear the sound of high-pitched, high-frequency devices. They may not eliminate rats completely, but when combined with other rat control techniques, they should keep a pretty tight barrier. At the very least, they'll make a very unpleasant home for those pests to be in.
Rat Repellent
If you don't mind spraying a little liquid inside your home, you may be able to create an effective barrier with rat repellent. One of the most popular choices? Imitation cat scent. Since rats are terrified of cats (and rightfully so), any whiff of their presence is enough to drive most of them far away. And since the liquid isn't an irritant for humans or pets, you don't have to worry about it causing any problems if something comes into contact with it.
Feline Friend
Without a doubt, one of the best DIY rat control techniques you can employ is a cat. Though some people may be allergic to cats, it's worth noting that the cat doesn't even need to be inside to make a difference. A stray cat that wanders around outside is enough of a guard that most rats will think twice about coming close to your property. At the very least, they won't want to set up their home near your house — not with an oversized predator walking around.
If you need more help with rat control, contact a pest control company.