Rats are one of the most common nuisance pests to residential homes and commercial businesses. Unfortunately, it can be a pain to get rid of rats once their infestation has spread. However, rats hate several rat removal deterrents that you can apply to help chase the invasive rodents from your property.
Rats Hate Strong Odors
Rats have a strong sense of smell and rely on it for communication. Since their noses are so sensitive, there are certain odors that rats hate, including:
- Mint – Mint is a strong smell that fortunately smells nice to humans. Placing peppermint oil around your home or planting mint in your garden will drive them away.
- Ammonia – Ammonia is one of the chemicals found in rat urine which rats use to mark their territory. If rats smell ammonia, they’ll think your property is already occupied by another critter.
- Other animals – Rats can easily pick up on their predators’ scents and learn to avoid the area. Common household pets like dogs and cats give off a smell that rats like to avoid.
Rats Hate Losing Their Basic Needs
Rats need a dark space with easy access to food and water. This is what often sends rats toward your cluttered basement or attic. The cleaner your home is, the less likely rats will try to live there. Clean up any clutter in living spaces, and keep perishable food sealed tight. Sweep up any spills as soon as they happen, and tighten leaky faucets so there’s no dripping water. Pet food and water bowls should also be kept up when not in use. Without access to food and water, rats will likely leave on their own.
Rats Hate Effective Rat Removal Methods
While rats hate rat traps, the tricky devices can also be pesky for humans. Rats can also become hostile and bite or scratch when threatened or captured, so keeping live traps can be a danger to you and your health.
The safest pest control method is hiring a rat removal specialist. Fortunately, Critter Control® of Polk County uses eco-friendly, non-toxic rat removal methods that are safe and humane for you, your family, and your pets.
Get Rid of Rats with Critter Control® of Polk County
The experienced wildlife removal technicians at Critter Control® of Polk County will remove nuisance rats and other unwanted wildlife from your property safely and efficiently. To schedule your inspection and receive a free estimate for our rat removal services, call Critter Control® of Polk County today at 863-204-2815.
