How to Catch a Pack Rat

Pack rats are rodents that tend to collect shiny objects, such as spoons, forks, gum wrappers, jewelry and pieces of mirrors. Pack rats, which tend to infest kitchens, can carry and transmit diseases such as rat-bite fever, salmonellosis and murine typhus. Catching these pesky rodents takes patience, the ability to outsmart the animals and practice future preventative measures.

Things You'll Need

  • Rat trap
  • Food
  • Storage containers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Stay up late one night. Rodents, such as pack rats, are nocturnal. Listen at night for scurrying and scuffling sounds in the walls and cabinets to pinpoint where they are.

    • 2

      Purchase rat traps. Trustworthy live traps, such as the Mouse Master, the Mini Cat, the Safeguard Rat and Squirrel Trap and the Multi-Catch Mouse Trap can catch rats without killing it.

    • 3

      Place rat-friendly traps near the scurrying sounds. Rat traps aligned with food, such as bread or cheese, can help you attract and catch the pack rat and set it free away from your house.

    • 4

      Purchase dry plaster and a silicone sealant. Seal off cracks, gaps and holes in your walls or foundation. This will keep rats out of your house.

    • 5

      Clean your infested areas. Dispose of the crumbs in your cabinet, on your floor and around trashcans. Keep your food in pest-resistant storage containers.

    • 6

      Maintain your yard and trees. Pick up all fallen fruit and plant trimmings regularly so you can see the ground and look for tunnels. Plants and fruit attract rodents because they provide shelter and food, respectively.