Rats in the Garage: Beyond the RatZapper to Integrated Control

A homeowner battled rats feeding on neighbor's dog food and nesting in the garage, with poison causing odor issues. The RatZapper (electrocution trap) works, but trapping alone is time-consuming and reactive.

Long-term success requires an integrated approach: 1) Eliminate food (secure dog food, birdseed, garbage). 2) Rodent-proof the structure (seal entry points >¼ inch with hardware cloth, steel wool, or concrete). 3) Reduce harborage (clear clutter, elevate stored items). 4) Trap strategically along walls and runways.

Detailed guides on Norway rat biology and rodent-proof construction are at ICWDM. Addressing habitat and food first makes trapping far more effective.