Due to their ability to adapt, survive and thrive, rats are ranked as the second most successful mammalian species living on Earth today- behind us humans, of course.
Thorough examinations need to be made periodically to assure that all points of entry - foundations, utility pipes and wires passing into the house, are secure.
If rats have already made themselves comfortable in your property, Havahart® recommends the following rat control options:
Rat Traps
Live catch traps may be used as rat traps to humanely capture and release rats. The Havahart® 0745 and 1025 traps are best suited for use as rat traps. They should be placed where activity has been seen.
Check out our recommended rat baits for a more successful trapping experience!
Ultrasonic Rat Repellents
Ultrasonic devices are an excellent alternative to poisons and trapping. These devices give off an inaudible sound to humans or non-rodent animals, but keeps rats out of your house.
If you are interested in ultrasonic rat repellents, we invite you to visit our sister site Victorpest.com
Exclusion
The most effective way to control rats is by making it impossible for them to enter your home. A building can be rat-proofed by eliminating all openings larger than 1/2 inch. Even after this is done, rats can gain access along plumbing and other utility lines. Eliminating as many access points as possible is a great move towards exclusion.
Other Rat Control Tips
Checking Your Property
The size of a quarter is the size of the hole that is needed for a rat to find its way inside your home or dwelling. Holes of this size should be sealed with heavy-weight material, i.e. heavy-gauge screening, or can be plugged with wire mesh. Caulking or foam sealants can be used, but only in conjunction with screening or wire mesh as rats can eat their way through these sealants.
Avoiding Facilitating Perfect Habitat Conditions
Good sanitation is essential to keep rats away. Keep the grounds near your dwelling free of debris. Food stuffs need to be kept in sealed “rat proof” containers. Birdseed, lawn clippings and garbage are another attractant for rats. Use tightly closed garbage containers. Do not have your pet’s food outside, but, if your pet resides outside, feed him and collect the food after twenty minutes.
Havahart® and its sister brands offer a variety of rat control solutions such as ultrasonic rat repellents and rat traps to help you with your rat control needs. | 
