6 Natural Rat Repellents You Can Use to Keep Rats Away

Whether you’re a homeowner dealing with an unexpected rat visitor or simply looking to protect your space from future intrusions, you’ve come to the right place. Rats can be more than just a nuisance—they can pose significant health risks and cause structural damage.

Fortunately, there are plenty of natural, eco-friendly ways to keep these pesky rodents at bay. In this post, we’ll explore a variety of prevention techniques and natural repellents that will help you maintain a rat-free home without resorting to harsh chemicals.

Prevention

The most effective strategy to keep rats at bay is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Rats are notorious for finding and exploiting even the tiniest of entry points, so it’s crucial to meticulously inspect your home for any potential gaps or openings.

Seal cracks and holes in walls, floors, and foundations, and make sure that doors and windows close tightly. Installing door sweeps and weather stripping can help block access points. Pay particular attention to areas where utilities enter the house, as these are common entryways for rats.

By eliminating these access points, you significantly reduce the likelihood of a rat infestation.

Want more cleaning and organizing tips? Sign up for our free daily newsletter for the latest hacks, expert advice, and more!

Natural Rat Repellents

If you want to get rid of pests without filling your home with harmful chemicals, here are several natural rat repellants for your home.

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is a popular natural rat repellent due to its strong scent, which rats find overwhelming. To use peppermint oil, soak cotton balls in the oil and place them in areas where you’ve noticed rat activity, such as near entry points or in corners of rooms. Refresh the cotton balls with oil every few days to maintain their potency.

Eucalyptus Oil

Similar to peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil can deter rats with its strong fragrance. Apply eucalyptus oil to cotton balls or small pieces of cloth and position them around your home, particularly in areas that might attract rats. This method not only repels rats but also leaves your home smelling fresh and clean.

Cats

Having a cat can be a natural and effective way to keep rats at bay. Cats are natural predators of rats and their presence alone can be a deterrent.

Allow your cat access to areas where rats might be hiding, such as basements or attics. Even if your cat isn’t an active hunter, the scent of a predator can make your home less appealing to rats.

Plants

Certain plants are known to repel rats due to their strong scents. Lavender, elderberry, daffodils, and mint can be planted around your home or garden to create a natural barrier.

For indoor use, consider growing these plants in pots and placing them near entry points or areas where rats have been spotted. These plants not only help in repelling rats but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of your surroundings.

Owls and Other Birds of Prey

Encouraging owls and other birds of prey to frequent your yard can help control the rat population. Install owl boxes or perches to attract these birds.

By creating a welcoming environment for natural predators, you can reduce the number of rats in your area. This method is particularly useful for those who have large gardens or live near wooded areas.

Ammonia

Though you probably wouldn’t consider this first, ammonia can be an effective rat deterrent due to its strong smell, which resembles the scent of predator urine. To use ammonia, mix it with water and place the solution in shallow bowls around areas where rats are active.

Be cautious with this method, as ammonia can be harmful to humans and pets if not used properly .

When to Call a Professional

If the rat infestation is out of control and natural methods are not yielding results, it’s time to call a professional pest control service. Professionals have the expertise and tools needed to handle severe infestations safely and effectively. They can identify the extent of the problem, implement targeted treatments, and provide guidance on preventing future infestations. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re dealing with a large number of rats or if the infestation poses a health risk to your household.

By taking proactive steps to prevent rats from entering your home and using natural deterrents, you can create a safer and more pleasant living environment. Remember, a little effort in prevention can go a long way in keeping these unwelcome guests out. And if you ever find yourself overwhelmed by a rat problem, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals. Here’s to a rat-free home and peace of mind!