What Do Rats Hate to Smell?
WouterIf you’re dealing with a rat infestation, you might be wondering: what do rats hate to smell? It’s probably no surprise that these creatures have an aversion to the smell of bleach. After all, they’re hot-blooded creatures, and they share many similarities with humans. But they also have a particular dislike for the smell of citronella.
Citronella oil is a natural rat repellent. It overwhelms a rat’s senses and reduces its appetite. You can also place citronella cotton balls in areas where you think rats might congregate, especially in basements. But remember that these methods do not work overnight, so be prepared to repeat the process a few times a week. Nevertheless, they may be effective, and they’ll keep rats away in the meantime.
Another natural repellent for rats is garlic. This plant’s aromatic scent is refreshing to humans, but it is extremely unpleasant to rats. You can place garlic cloves in areas where rats are active, but be aware that they’ll spoil very quickly. You can also sprinkle garlic powder around the area. Alternatively, you can use ammonia, which is a strong chemical that has a pungent odor. For this, you can mix two cups of ammonia with a quarter of water and two teaspoons of detergent and leave it in the area.
Ammonia is a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen that is commonly used for fertilizer. It is also used to purify water and manufacture chemicals. Although some scientists claim that ammonia is a mouse repellent, the substance is highly toxic and a health hazard. If inhaled, it can cause skin burns, eye irritation, and inflamed airways. It is even deadly if you inhale a small amount.
