How to Get Rid of Rats in Tennessee

Rats are not just a nuisance. They are a significant health threat that can wreak havoc on homes and businesses across Tennessee. From contaminating food to damaging structures, these rodents can be relentless once they invade a space. With Tennessee’s climate providing a favorable environment for rats to thrive, understanding how to eliminate them is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy living or working environment.

Tips To Keep Rats Away

Swift action is key when you discover the signs of a rat infestation. But how do you handle rats on your Tennessee property? Here are some methods that have proven to be effective:

• Keep a Clean Home: Regularly vacuum, sweep, and wipe down surfaces to remove food particles. Declutter areas like basements, attics, and garages where rats may seek shelter.

• Properly Store Garbage: Keep trash in sealed containers both inside and outside, and promptly dispose of waste to prevent attracting rodents.
• Fix Leaks and Reduce Moisture: Rats need water to survive, so fix any leaks in pipes or faucets and remove standing water around your home.
• Maintain Your Yard: Trim trees and shrubs away from your house, and clear away piles of leaves, wood, or debris that rats could use as shelter.
• Use Traps and Bait: Placing traps or bait stations in areas where rats are likely to be active can yield excellent results. Ensure that the traps are positioned safely, and out of reach of children and pets.

Why You May Have Rat Infestations

Rats often enter homes during colder months in search of food, water, and shelter. Several factors contribute to making homes appealing to them, such as:

• Accessible Food: Unsecured garbage, pet food, crumbs, and pantry items can attract rats. They’re opportunistic feeders and will exploit any available food.
• Clutter and Hiding Spots: Piles of clutter, cardboard boxes, and unused items provide ideal places for rats to hide, nest, and breed.
• Sources of Water: Rats need water to survive, so leaky pipes, pet water bowls, or even standing water in basements can entice them.
• Gaps and Entry Points: Cracks in walls, poorly sealed doors, and unprotected vents offer easy access to the inside of a home.

How to Get Rid of Burrowing Rats

Burrowing rats present a distinct challenge by digging underground tunnels for shelter and breeding. To help control these pests:

• Identify Entry Points: Inspect for rat burrows near your building’s foundation, in garden beds, or around garbage storage areas. These burrows typically appear as small holes with smooth, worn edges from regular activity.
• Set Traps: Place snap traps or live traps near entry points, using attractive baits like peanut butter or cheese.
• Use Rodenticides: For severe infestations, rodenticides may be necessary. Place them cautiously at burrow entrances, following safety guidelines to safeguard other wildlife and the environment.
• Seek Professional Help: Should the infestation remain or become extensive, it’s best to contact professional pest control services for a more complete approach to the problem.

Get Rid of Rats With Professional Extermination

Managing a rat infestation can be overwhelming and pose health risks without professional assistance. Although DIY methods may offer short-term relief, they often fall short in addressing burrowing rats or severe infestations. 

At Johnson Pest Control, our state-certified rat extermination specialists bring over 30 years of experience and employ advanced, industry-standard techniques. We offer comprehensive services that include an initial inspection, tailored eradication strategies, and follow-up visits to ensure the problem is fully resolved.

Reach out to the professionals at Johnson Pest Control for a free estimate!