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Control Methods for Rats and Mice

Here are some recommendations for help in controlling rats and mice in and around your home or business.

For help with identification and rodent habitats visit our Pest Library.

Removal of Shelter

Piles of lumber, trash or other materials can be shelters for rats. Trash, such as empty boxes and cartons, should be discarded of promptly. Stored materials should be at least 18 inches off the ground or floor, and with space between the material and the wall.

Removal of Water and Food

The best way to eliminate the food supply of rats and mice is to store food in glass or metal containers, and to put garbage in tightly covered trash cans. Repair leaky faucets and remove any water that rodents have access to.

Use of Rodenticides and Traps

Rodenticides

One effective way of destroying rats and mice, and the one most generally recommended, is the use of rodenticides. There are many different kinds of rodenticides available.

Traps are just as effective but they require more effort

They work well where there are few rats and mice. The best place to set traps is close to walls in areas where rodents run. The selection of baits for trapping is important. Baits should be fresh and changed daily. Use a variety of baits on traps rather than a single kind of bait. Fruit, peanut butter and nuts all make good baits.

Sealing Possible Entries to a Building

All openings rodents can enter should be covered with rat-resistant materials such as hardware cloth or steel wool. Doors should be closed when not in use, and all edges subject to gnawing should be covered with metal. Unnecessary openings should be covered with concrete or sheet metal. Concrete also can be used to prevent rats from burrowing under foundations.