Rats and other rodents, such as mice can be tricky to remove from your home once they have gotten inside and nested. Rats breed prolifically and can increase in numbers in a very short amount of time. Using rat repellents can help control and eventually eradicate rats that are in your home.
Natural repellents can be a method that homeowners prefer based on the humane treatment and non-toxic effects of the products. Peppermint oil is a natural rat repellent, as is wormwood oil. Both of these substances are effective when used on a consistent basis and can drive rats away. Other scent-based repellents include toilet or urinal cakes and the urine from predatory animals, such as cats, in the form of used kitty litter. Pellets that actually contain the urine compounds from other predators of rats are available. As with all scented repellents, using them consistently and replacing them frequently can increase their effectiveness.
Other repellents include predators themselves, such as cats. Cats can help keep rodent populations at bay, but rodents can also carry deadly diseases and can be dangerous to pets. They carry ticks and fleas that will transmit Lyme disease, among others illnesses. Pets who come in contact with pests on rats can pick up Lyme disease and leptospirosis.
Lastly, sonic repellents can be a useful tool when it comes to rat control. Sonic repellents emit sound waves at a pitch that humans cannot hear, but rats can, so it drives them away. Unfortunately, walls interfere with the transmission of these waves and can stop them from reaching their targets. Pets also can hear the high-pitched sounds, so if you are a pet owner, this method for rat control is not recommended.
The longest lasting methods of rat control, though, are usually administered by a pest control professional. They can work with you and develop an effective plan for the treatment of your home.