Rats are filthy creatures which love to invade homes in search of food. They can create chaos and carry many diseases. The presence of St Louis rats at home can immediately be known by the presence of rat droppings, tears in fabrics, holes in furniture, wood etc. Though rats are not welcome getting rid of rats by killing them is not an ideal option for many. Natural home remedies are more humane and many prefer it. Homemade remedies can be classified into three main groups.



1. Natural methods
2. Obstruction of entry
3. Trapping rats

Natural methods
Natural methods include use of products to repel Missouri rats. The pungent smell of peppermint oil is unpleasant to rats. Cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil can be placed in rat prone areas. Other strong smelling substances like ammonia, moth balls, powdered pepper, bay leaf etc can also be used. Deterrents like owl’s feather, cat litter or snake litter also have detrimental effects. Having a pet cat is also useful. But, it is essential to remember that having a pet has its own share of responsibilities. These methods are sometimes not very effective.

Obstruction of entry
Once St Louis rats are sighted it is important to know their mode of entry and seal them. Rats rarely stay inside and entry points can be sealed when they go out. Start with interior walls and then seal the exterior entry points. This can be done using wire meshing for filling holes with steel wool. Rats find it difficult to chew through them. Caulk can be used to seal small holes. Larger holes have to be sealed with plaster or drywall. Holes must be sealed after the rats have left to prevent re-entry.

Trapping rats
Trapping Missouri rats is a fast way of getting rid of them. A humane trap which does not kill them is used. Peanut butter and cheese can be used as bait. The rat gets caught when it enters inside. The rat can then be relocated far away from the home. Multiple traps may be necessary.

Prevention of rat entry has been found to be the most effective way of getting rid of them. Rats require food, stagnant water and shelter for their survival. These basics when not available cause the rat to leave. A few simple guidelines followed can help.
• Keep your house neat and clean. Regularly check wardrobes, closets and attics.
• Always keep food covered and clean food spillage immediately.
• The garbage can must be kept covered and at a distance.
• All holes and openings are potential entry points for St Louis rats. They must be covered and checked regularly.
• Avoid having vegetation near the house as rats can jump in through them. Similarly trees with hanging branches touching your windows or roofs must be pruned so that they do not permit entry of rats.
• Vents must be covered.
Poisoning of Missouri rats is cruel and problematic. Rats can die in far reaching places after consuming poison and it becomes difficult to remove them and the stench is horrible.

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