Rats in the House – What Can I Do Now?

A rat infestation in the house is not only a major nuisance, but also a serious threat to health and safety. Because these rodents can transmit diseases, cause damage to buildings and contaminate food. 

In this article, you will learn how to recognize rats in the house, what measures you can take and how IREPELL ® has established itself as an animal-friendly alternative to poison and traps.

Signs of a rat infestation in the house

Rats are nocturnal rodents that often hide during the day and only become active after dark. However, there are several signs that indicate a rat infestation:

• Rat faeces: Small, dark, spindle-shaped excrement often found along walkways or near food sources.

• Traces of gnawing: Damaged cables, wood, plastic and food packaging indicate the activities of rats.

• Walkways and smear marks: Rats often use the same paths, often visible through dark, greasy tracks along walls or on floors.

• Nests: Rats build their nests from shredded materials such as paper, fabric or insulation. These are often located in protected, hard-to-reach areas.

• Noises: Scratching and scratching sounds in walls, ceilings or under the floor are another indication of rat activity.

• Ammonia odor: A pungent odor caused by rat urine may indicate an infestation.

Initial measures for rat infestation

If you notice signs of rat infestation, you should act immediately to prevent spread and expel the rats. Here are some first steps:

• Eliminate food sources: Remove food scraps and secure food in tightly closed containers. Ensure that garbage bags and bins are properly closed.

• Lock access points: Check the house for possible access points such as cracks, holes or open basement windows and seal them.

• Maintain cleanliness: Keep all areas of the house, especially the kitchen and pantry, clean and free of crumbs and food scraps.

Home Remedies for Rats

There are various home remedies that can help deter rats. Predominantly, it is intense smells that irritate the rodents or that suggest a natural enemy:

• Vinegar essence: The strong smell of vinegar can scare off rats. Place bowls of vinegar in affected areas.

• Essential oils: Fragrances such as peppermint oil, clove oil and chamomile are unpleasant for rats. Soak cotton balls in these oils and place them along the rat's pathways.

• Cat litter: Used cat litter can spread the smell of predators and keep rats away.

• Cayenne Pepper: Sprinkle cayenne pepper in rat nests or along their runways to drive them away.

• Turpentine: The smell of turpentine is also off-putting for rats.

Professional pest control

If home remedies are not sufficient or the infestation is too large, a professional pest controller can be called in. Exterminators have the necessary expertise and equipment to fight rats efficiently. In Germany, larger rat infestations must be reported to the regulatory office.

Advantages of professional pest control

• Effectiveness: Professional methods are often more effective and sustainable than home remedies.

• Safety: Professionals know how to safely place rat traps, rat poison and poison bait so as not to pose a danger to humans and pets.

• Advice: Pest controllers may also recommend preventive measures to prevent future infestations.

Disadvantages of professional pest control

• Poison and traps are usually used, and animal welfare suffers.

• As a rule, professional pest control is expensive.

Rat traps and the like – what options are there?

There are numerous conventional methods of controlling rats. However, this often raises concerns about animal welfare and safety.

Hitting Traps

Strike traps are an often chosen method to kill rats. They are inexpensive and effective, but require regular inspection and disposal of the dead animals.

Live Traps

Live traps catch rats alive so that they can be removed and released. This method is more humane, but also requires regular monitoring and proper release of the animals.

H3: Poison bait

Poison bait is a widely used method of controlling rats, but it poses risks to other animals and children. They should only be used by professionals.

Preventive measures to prevent rat infestation

Prevention is the best way to avoid rat infestation. Here are some measures:

• Cleanliness and order: Keep all areas of the house clean and tidy.
• Secure food sources: Store food in sealed containers and dispose of food scraps immediately.
• Seal access points: Seal cracks and holes and install backflow flaps on drains.
• Regular inspections: Regularly check the house for signs of rats and take immediate action if necessary.

Causes of rats in the house

Rats are opportunistic rodents that can quickly adapt to their environment to find food, water, and shelter. Under certain circumstances, a house can offer ideal conditions for a rat infestation. Here are some common causes that can promote rat infestation:

• Food scraps and leftovers: Open or poorly secured waste containers are an attractive food source for rats. Food residues, especially those with a high fat or sugar content, attract them.
• Pet food: Open bowls of dog food, cat food, or food for other outdoor pets are also popular with rats.
• Compost piles: Uncovered or poorly managed compost piles often contain organic waste, which is a nutritious source for rats.
• Garbage cans: Unsecured garbage cans with leftovers provide plenty of food for rats. Even a small access can be enough to attract them.
• Open water sources: Dripping or leaking faucets in the garden or on external walls are easily accessible water sources.
• Access to Buildings: Open doors, windows, or vents allow rats access to homes and garages where they can find more food sources and shelter.

IREPELL® – the innovative rat control solution

IREPELL® offers an advanced, animal-friendly and environmentally friendly solution for effective rat repulsion. The device uses motion sensors and ultrasound to effectively expel rats.

Here are the advantages of IREPELL® at a glance:

• Effective defence: Rats are effectively repelled by a specially selected ultrasound range – scientifically proven.
• Easy to use: The device is easy to install and control via a user-friendly app.
• Long range: IREPELL® protects with a 360° shield through a far-reaching ultrasonic signal.
• Environmentally friendly:IREPELL ® does not use chemicals or toxins, leaving no toxic residues

IREPELL® functions in both battery and mains operation and can therefore also be used on the go to repel different animals. Because the AI-powered smart device can not only keep rats away: ticks, ants, mosquitoes, gels and moths and cockroaches as well as martens, mice orraccoons are also kept at a distance. IREPELL is also extremely effective against dogs and cats.

IREPELL ® thus also proves to be a true all-rounder in gentle and ethically justifiable animal protection at the next outdoor event or on the road.

FAQs

What are the most common signs of rat infestation?

Common signs of rat infestation include rat droppings, traces of gnawing, walking paths, smear marks, nests, and a pungent ammonia smell.

How can I drive away rats in the house?

Use home remedies such as vinegar essence, essential oils and cayenne pepper or modern methods such as the IREPELL ®ultrasound machine to expel rats from the house.

When should I call a pest controller?

If the pest infestation is large or home remedies are insufficient, an exterminator should be called in.

Are rats dangerous?

Yes, rats are possible carriers of pathogens and can cause damage to buildings.

How do I prevent a rat infestation?

Keep the house clean, secure food in locked containers, and close possible access points to keep rats away.

What is IREPELL® and how does it work?

IREPELL® is an ultrasonic device that emits high-frequency sound waves to expel rats. It is safe for humans and pets because it dispenses with violence, fragrances and other chemical agents.

How do I place rat traps correctly?

Place traps along the rat's walkways, ideally on walls or in corners.

What do I do if I find a dead rat?

Wear gloves and dispose of the dead rat in a tight garbage bag. Clean and disinfect the area thoroughly. Also take measures against a possible rat infestation – both preventive measures and home remedies or innovative systems such as IREPELL® will support you.