Rat Trapping Tips: Proven Methods for Quick Results

Dealing with a rat infestation can be an overwhelming experience. Fortunately, there is a range of effective rat control solutions designed to eliminate these unwanted pests quickly.

This guide will walk you through expert techniques for trapping a rat effectively, economically, and without additional stress!

Understanding Rat Behavior Before Trapping

Before you start rat trapping, don’t be surprised if they initially avoid your trap. As naturally cautious creatures, rats tend to be wary of new objects in their environment. Once they become accustomed to the trap, their curiosity will grow, and they’ll be more likely to fall for it.

They are also creatures of habit and will establish regular travel routes between their nests and food sources, preferring to move along walls, pipes, and other continuous surfaces.

Keep in mind that you probably won’t see them much during the day. You’re more likely to trap them between dusk and dawn, since that’s when rats are most active.

Choosing the Right Rat Trap

Choosing the right rat trap for your environment makes all the difference, as it improves your chances of catching rats quickly and effectively.

Snap Traps

Snap traps are made from wood or plastic and feature a powerful spring mechanism that instantly captures rats. They deliver immediate results and are ideal for use along walls or in areas with visible rat activity.

Glue Traps

Glue traps are formulated with specific scents designed to attract rats and other rodents. Their low-profile design fits into the tight spaces where rats travel, and the extra-sticky adhesive ensures that once a rat makes contact, it stays captured. They can often capture multiple rats on a single board, making them extremely cost-effective for larger infestations.

Live-Catch Traps

Live-catch traps are ideal for situations where non-lethal control is preferred. They are designed to capture the rodent without harming it. Once captured, rats can be released away from your property.

How Do You Trap a Rat: Expert Tips on Trap Placement

Placement also impacts your rat trapping success! Let’s take a look at some of the best places to put a rodent trap.

Along Walls and Travel Paths

The best place to set a rat trap is along walls and other frequently traveled paths. If you’re using a glue trap, position it with the adhesive surface perpendicular to the wall. In especially active areas, consider setting multiple traps in a row to increase your chances of capture. 

Near Food Sources

Rats are constantly seeking food, making kitchens, pantries, and trash storage areas prime locations for trapping. Place your trap near their food sources, but not directly in areas where food is prepared or stored.

Close to Nesting Areas

One of the most important rat trapping tips we can offer is to identify and target the rats’ nesting areas. This will help you eliminate the life cycle of your infestation.

Look for areas with shredded paper, fabric, or insulation, and place traps nearby. Focus on areas such as under appliances, cabinets, and other confined spaces where rats are likely to establish nests.

Best Baits for Rat Traps

Most glue traps are designed to work effectively without the need for additional bait. Adding unnecessary bait can inhibit their effectiveness.

For snap traps, you can use peanut butter, chocolate, dried fruit, or nuts to entice rats to your trap. Ensure the bait is securely fastened to the trigger plate, so that the snap activates correctly and traps your unwanted visitor.

Safety and Handling Tips for Rat Trapping

Now that you know how to trap a rat, let’s talk about how to stay safe when handling rat traps. 

Always use your selected trap as directed. Try to place them where pets and children cannot access them, such as behind appliances or inside enclosed bait stations.

When handling rat traps, wear gloves to prevent transferring human scent to the traps, which could deter rats. If you accidentally touch the glue surface, gently wash it with soap and water, or apply vegetable oil to safely remove the adhesive from your skin.

Once you trap a rat, place the entire trap in a sealed plastic bag and dispose of it in a trash can or bin away from your home.

Common Rat Trapping Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some of the most common rat trapping mistakes, and what you can do to avoid them.

• Not using enough traps. We recommend using multiple traps, especially for larger infestations. Most homes will require at least six to 12 traps throughout the house. Look for multi-packs that provide excellent value and comprehensive coverage.
• Moving the traps too frequently. Let your traps remain in place for at least 48-72 hours before relocating them, allowing rats time to overcome their initial wariness.
• Not wearing gloves when handling traps. Always use clean gloves when handling traps to avoid transferring your scent to the trap. Rats can smell humans, and your scent may deter them from getting close to the trap.
• Not placing the traps in the right areas. Putting traps in low-traffic areas wastes their potential. Focus on areas with clear evidence of rat activity, such as droppings, grease marks, or gnaw marks.

Why Professionals Trust Catchmaster® Rat Traps

For over 70 years, the Catchmaster name has been known for our safe, reliable, and effective pest control solutions. Whether you need to put an end to an existing rat infestation or you simply want to be proactive, Catchmaster has the trap you need!

All of our pest control solutions are non-toxic, cost-effective, and easy to use. Put an end to a rodent infestation with our proprietary glue formula that makes our traps some of the best rat traps on the market.