Rats are a common nuisance that invade homes and businesses throughout the Houston area. Getting rid of rats effectively requires understanding the species involved and using the right rat removal in Houston. This guide covers key steps for ridding your Houston property of destructive rodents.

Identifying the Culprits

There are three main rat species found around Houston:

Norway Rats - The most common rodent pest, Norway rats burrow underground and nest in basements and crawlspaces. They are identified by their large size and brown-gray color.

Roof Rats - Agile climbers that nest in trees, attics and upper floors. Roof rats have large ears and a blackish belly. They're found throughout the Houston metro area.

Cotton Rats - A native species that lives outdoors in brushy areas. Cotton rats occasionally invade garages or sheds. They have tawny brown fur with white bellies.

Inspecting droppings, nests, tracks and other signs will help determine what type of rats you are dealing with so proper removal methods can be used. Norway and roof rats pose the biggest problems for homes and businesses.

Rodent-Proofing Your Property

The most important step is exclusion - sealing up entry points so rats can't get in. Use steel wool, caulk, cement or metal plates to close gaps and holes inside and out that are wider than 1/4 inch. Pay special attention around doors, windows, pipes and the building foundation. Eliminating access prevents long-term rat problems.

Traps

Trapping is an effective and environmentally safe way to control a rat infestation. Snap traps that use a spring-loaded bar to kill rats instantly work best. Bait traps with peanut butter, chocolate, nuts or bacon. Place traps wherever droppings, rub marks or sightings indicate rat activity. Attics, crawlspaces, garages and kitchens are common problem spots. Check and empty traps daily.

Poison Baits

Rodenticide poisons are another chemical control option. Rat baits contain anticoagulants that cause lethal internal bleeding after multiple feedings. Use tamper-resistant bait stations to keep poisons away from children and pets. Avoid using rodenticides where rats may die inside walls or other inaccessible places.

Natural Predators

Encouraging natural predators like hawks, foxes, and cats can provide biological control of rats around your property. Provide habitat like brush piles to attract predators. Make sure pet cats and dogs have access to enclosed spaces where rats are spotted. Predators work best at lowering populations when combined with other methods.

Professional Exterminators

For major rat infestations or issues inside walls and ceilings, professional pest control may be required. Experienced exterminators have access to more potent rodenticides and can fully treat multi-family housing units or commercial properties. They can also locate difficult to find entry points. Get estimates from at least 3 Houston rat exterminators before choosing one.

Preventing Reinfestation

Completely getting rid of rats requires diligence and maintenance:

  • Inspect regularly for new gaps or holes and seal promptly
  • Keep exterior areas clean and trim vegetation back from buildings
  • Remove exterior food sources like bird feeders, fallen fruit or compost
  • Store human and pet food in sealed metal containers
  • Set traps permanently in vulnerable areas to catch invaders early

Following these steps will help prevent rats from returning and establishing themselves on your Houston property again.

When to Hire a Professional

In some situations, expert assistance is best for removing rats:

  • Infestations in large multi-family housing complexes
  • Severe infestations with rats in walls or ceilings
  • Burrows and activity under slabs, foundations or in basements
  • Commercial properties like restaurants and warehouses

Licensed pest management pros have the tools and training to fully eliminate large or complex rat problems.

Conclusion

Rats are a nuisance that can invade any property around Houston. Getting rid of them for good requires sealing up entry points, rat trapping, removing food sources, and maintaining vigilance. For major infestations, don't hesitate to call in a professional exterminator. Taking proper steps to control rats will help protect your home or business from damage and disease these pests can cause. With persistence and the right methods, you can kick rats to the curb.