Rat poison, or rodenticide, is a common solution for dealing with rodent infestations, but understanding how it works is key to using it effectively and safely.
Whether you’re facing a few unwelcome visitors or a larger rodent problem, here’s everything you need to know about how these poisons get rid of rats, the different types available, and how to use them responsibly.
Key Takeaways
- Rat poison targets rodents’ systems, with anticoagulants being the most common, causing internal bleeding and slow death.
- Safe use of rat poison involves careful placement, patience, and following label instructions for best results.
- Risks of rat poison include harm to pets, wildlife, and humans, making safer alternatives worth considering.
- Professional pest control offers safe and effective rodent solutions, including prevention services and expert handling of poisons.
WHAT IS RAT POISON AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
Rat poison, or rodenticide, is designed to get rid of rats by targeting their biological systems.
The most common types are anticoagulant rodenticides, which interfere with the rodent’s ability to produce Vitamin K. After ingestion, it starts to disrupt the rodent’s blood-clotting process, leading to internal bleeding.
These poisons are slow-acting, ensuring the rat doesn’t associate the poison with its symptoms.
Other rodenticides work differently, such as affecting the nervous system or causing lethal doses of calcium build-up in the body.
TYPES OF RAT POISONS
There are several types of rat poisons, each working in different ways to control rodent populations. Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly used options:
Anticoagulant Rodenticides
These are the most commonly used types of rodenticides.
The first generation includes active ingredients like warfarin, brodifacoum, and bromadiolone. Second-generation anticoagulants (e.g., brodifacoum) are more potent and effective against anticoagulant-resistant rats.
If you’ve noticed rats consuming poisoned bait but not disappearing, it’s because the effects take time to build up. You can expect results within three to seven days.
Bromethalin
This rodenticide works differently by affecting the nervous system, leading to paralysis and death. It’s faster-acting than anticoagulants and lethal even in small doses.
Cholecalciferol (Vitamin D3)
This type of poison causes a dangerous calcium build-up, leading to kidney failure and death. It’s effective against rodents that are resistant to other poisons. It carries less risk of secondary rodenticide poisoning to predators.
Zinc Phosphide
This rodent poison reacts with stomach acid to produce phosphine gas, which is lethal. It is often used for outdoor applications, like controlling gophers.
HOW TO USE RAT POISON SAFELY
Using rat poison effectively and safely requires attention to placement and environmental factors:
- Bait Stations: These tamper-resistant containers protect the bait from children, pets, and non-target wildlife. They also allow rodents to feel secure while consuming the poison.
- Placement: Place bait stations near rodent activity, such as along walls, in basements, or near food sources.
- Patience: Rodenticides don’t kill rats immediately. Allow a few days to a week to see results.
- Follow Label Instructions: Always use the recommended amount of bait and follow all safety precautions provided by the manufacturer.
IS RAT POISON SAFE TO USE?
While rodenticides are effective, they carry risks that homeowners should be aware of:
- Risks to Pets and Wildlife: Secondary poisoning can occur if predators or pets consume poisoned rodents. Using less harmful options, such as cholecalciferol, can help reduce this risk.
- Dead Rodents in Inaccessible Areas: Rats may die in hard-to-reach places, causing unpleasant odors. Be prepared for proper removal and sanitation.
- Potential Health Hazards to Humans: Handling rodenticides improperly or accidental ingestion can pose serious health risks to humans, especially children.
OTHER WAYS TO DEAL WITH RATS WITHOUT USING POISONS
If you’re hesitant to use rat poison or looking for a more comprehensive solution, consider these strategies to get rid of rats:
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Combine poison with traps, sealing entry points, and removing food sources for a long-term solution.
- Professional Pest Control: Local experts like our skilled wildlife crew from LaJaunie’s Pest Control can document findings with photos and provide a clear action plan for your approval.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the use of rodenticides to lessen environmental impact and non-target exposure. Look for EPA-approved products to ensure safety.
WHEN TO CALL THE PROFESSIONALS
If rat poison hasn’t resolved your rodent problem or you’re unsure about how to use it safely, professional pest control is your best bet.
At LaJaunie’s Pest Control, we specialize in safe, effective rodent control for homes in Southern Louisiana. Whether you’re in Baton Rouge or New Orleans, our Healthy Home + Rodent package includes rat bait stations and ongoing prevention services.