Oh, rats!
This exclamation may be fitting for a variety of scenarios, but there is no situation more appropriate than when you find your beloved home has become infested with exactly that: rats. If this describes your situation, it’s a tough place to be in — but it’s important to know that you’re not alone.
There are many factors that can lead to a few rat visitors, including but not limited to the neighbourhood that you live in, the climate, and the presence of nearby food sources. However, no matter where your rats have come from, it can be hard to evict them by your own willpower. Most likely, you’re going to need the help of a trusted rat pest control company.
However, we appreciate a drive to try to DIY things first — that is why, in this article, we will offer ways to both bid farewell to rats in the home, as well as how to prevent them ever showing up in the first place. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
3 Prevention and Extermination Tips For Rat Pest Control
Prevention Tip 1: Keep Garbage Sealed
It’s no secret to anyone that rats are attracted by the scent of food scraps. In fact, rats have such an acute sense of smell that they have an impressive ability to seek out food scents. Even if you are unable to smell your garbage or compost bin, it doesn’t mean that rats will not be able to. The best way to prevent rats from getting into your garbage is by closing your bins tightly and keeping your bins out of direct sunlight.
Extermination Tip 1: Peppermint Oil
There is some evidence to suggest that certain essential oils will repel rats away. One such oil is peppermint oil — if you spread peppermint oil in the areas that rat frequent, it may cause them irritation which can help keep them away. It’s important to note, though, that peppermint oil can also be an irritant for humans, and it is poisonous for cats and dogs. It should be used with care.
Prevention Tip 2: Seal Gaps
If rats are getting into your home, chances are that they are doing so through small gaps in your exterior. You can decrease the likelihood of rats getting in by sealing the gaps around your residence, whether it be with wire wool, cement, caulk, or other matter. Pest control can help homeowners identify areas that rats may be able to enter through.
Extermination Tip 2: Pepper
Pepper, specifically of the black pepper variety, could possibly repel rats, although there is no scientific evidence available to confirm this. Anecdotal evidence, however, exists plentifully, with some homeowners swearing that spreading a thin layer of black pepper in any area that rats can be found in will keep them at bay.
Prevention Tip 3: Keep Clutter At a Minimum
One of the best ways to keep rats away is to cut down on their habitat. You can do this by keeping your indoor and outdoor areas free of clutter and debris, and by cleaning on a regular basis.
Extermination Tip 3: Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is another essential oil that may help keep rats away. There is evidence to suggest that rats find the odour of eucalyptus oil unpleasant. You can put this to the test by diluting eucalyptus oil and applying it with a spray bottle in problem areas. Careful, though — eucalyptus oil is toxic to pets.
Rat Pest Control Services In Vancouver
If you have reached your wit’s end with your pest troubles, a professional rat pest control company is here for you. As an industry leader in the Vancouver area, we are committed to helping our customers live a peaceful and pest-free life. With over 40 years of combined experience, there is no job too large or difficult. Get in touch today!