5 Common Myths About Rats and the Rodent Control Problem

Rats are one of the most common pests on Earth, but the average homeowner may not know a lot about them. In fact, there are a lot of myths about rats that are simply untrue. However, a little knowledge goes a long way. By discovering the truth about the following five myths, you’ll be better equipped to protect yourself, your family, and your home from these rodents.

Myth 1: These days, rats don’t actually carry diseases.

Not true. In the Middle Ages, rats were one of the top carriers of the plague. And while modern living conditions and medicine prevent that level of outbreak from recurring, rats are still extremely effective disease carriers. The Norway rat in particular is notorious for spreading trichinosis, salmonella, and other dangerous pathogens that could be extremely harmful to you and your pets.

Myth 2: It’s OK to approach or touch a rat.

We’ve heard this one before: Plenty of kids keep rats as pets, so cornering a wild one is fine, right? No, absolutely not.

Domesticated rats are accustomed to being around humans, and they recognize them as a friendly source of food. But wild rats can actually be vicious and unpredictable, so it’s best to keep a safe distance. In particular, avoid rats that are trapped but still alive in a glue or snap trap. They may lash out and bite or scratch you, which can be dangerous.

Myth 3: Only run-down areas attract rats.

A common misconception about rodents is that they only live in poor, unkempt areas. However, the truth is that they can appear nearly anywhere. Rats don’t discriminate by your income or neighborhood. As long as they can find water, food, and shelter, they can make themselves at home in any area. That’s why it’s important for all homeowners (and renters) to know how to spot the signs of rats and to understand how to best remove them.

Myth 4: All rats love cheese.

We blame this myth on our childhood cartoons, which taught us that all rodents love cheese. Actually, only certain species of rats will be attracted to cheese. Roof rats are actually vegetarians, while Norway rats are omnivores.  

That’s why, if you have a rat problem, it’s helpful to know what kind of rat you’re dealing with. You can also sidestep the question of bait altogether by using long-lasting bio-attractant lure bottles, like those used in the Goodnature™ A24 Rat and Mouse Trap.

Myth 5: Having a cat is great rat prevention.

Although many cats will hunt rats, a rodent problem can still get out of control if your home includes a housecat or two. That’s because some domesticated cats aren’t great hunters; after all, they’re used to relaxing inside all day! Others will stay away from rats as a way to protect themselves, which is usually for the best: You probably don’t want your furry friend scratching or biting a rat that could be carrying disease, then meandering back inside to relax with the family.

In addition, the presence of cat food is one of the top attractors for rats. So if you don’t currently have a cat, getting one to combat your rat problem might actually be counterproductive.

The bottom line is this: If you have a cat and begin experiencing a rat infestation, it’s best to take care of it yourself with reliable traps, rather than hoping that kitty will handle it.

Fight Back Against Rats

Although rats can be a bit mysterious and, sometimes, downright creepy, simply knowing a bit more about them is a good first step toward eradicating them from your home.

If you’re dealing with a rodent problem, it’s important to stay safe and act quickly to get rid of the infestation. To eradicate rats easily and effectively, install the quick-kill, self-resetting trap by Goodnature™. Each CO2 canister can kill up to 24 rats without toxins, electricity, or assistance from you, taking the confusion out of dealing with rodents.