Humane Rat Trap

Rats are a priority health and safety concern in major cities.  Rats would be a priority health and safety concern in any home, as well.  There are many different solutions, including the use of a humane rat trap.   Many animal lovers prefer not to kill the rodents, desiring relocation of the rats as an acceptable alternative.   The definition and validity of a humane rat trap is questioned by animal lovers.

Rats and mice pose significant health and safety risks.  The CDC, Center for Disease Control, states that rodents can carry and transmit up to 35 diseases.  Rats and mice can cause a lot of costly damage, also.  There are many rodent control options available.  Glue boards, snap traps, poison baits, electric and electronic traps and repellents are some of the methods commonly used to control rat and mice infestations.  Some rat traps are live traps, which do not harm the rat or mouse.  They are designed with a non-contact release method.  Other traps that claim to be humane provide an “instant kill”.  This means the rat dies immediately and does not suffer.  The Humane Society, Animal Rights Activists, and consumers that are animal lovers promote the use of live traps and natural deterrents and repellents as humane alternatives.  Some available humane traps are: 

1.  The Victor Electronic Rat Trap:  This “humane” trap features electronic plates that deliver a high voltage shock to kill the rat within seconds.  The humane rat trap is made of durable plastic and has a “no escape” entrance.  It can kill and collect up to 12 rats in one setting.  The trap is powered with four C batteries, and has a red alert light that indicates when the batteries need to be replaced.  This “humane” trap is available and can be purchased online from Wildlifemanagementsupplies for $65.83.

2. The Rat Zapper Ultra Rodent Eliminator:  This “humane” trap uses infrared technology to sense when a rat has entered the trap and immediately provides a lethal shock to prevent the rat from suffering a prolonged death.  It has an LED light to indicate that a rat has been captured.  The rat tail is an optional device that attaches to the unit enabling users to monitor the trap from up to 12 feet away.  This is convenient for hard to reach locations. The unit is powered with four D batteries.  This humane rat trap measures 11½ inches long, 4 inches wide, and 5 inches high.  The Rat Zapper is available online from Gemplers for $51.25.

Live traps and cage traps are available for a no kill method of control.  Using non-toxic, all natural deterrents is a safe and effective way to keep rats away.  Electronic sonic devices are effective repellents, as well.